Who Are the ‘Tawhidi Janata’ Attempting to Intimidate Investors and Spark Fear?
The terms “Mob Justice” and “Tawhidi Janata” have recently become increasingly common in public discussion. Concerns have grown over incidents in which groups have taken the law into their own hands, attacked shrines and khankas, and disrupted cultural events in the name of protecting Islamic values. Such incidents are also raising concerns about Bangladesh’s investment environment. At a time when the country needs new industries and foreign investment to create jobs and revive the economy, violence and disruption can send negative signals to international investors.
The key question is: who are acting in the name of “Tawhidi Janata”, and are their actions consistent with Islamic values? The Arabic word tawhid refers to the oneness of Allah. “Tawhidi Janata” is generally used to describe devout Muslims who believe in the basic principles and values of Islam. The term itself is not negative. However, recent incidents carried out in its name have sparked debate over its use. According to the report, attacks have taken place at shrines, khankas and dargahs associated with pirs and fakirs. A study cited in the report says that 138 such sites were attacked across the country over the past two years.
In Sylhet’s Beanibazar, a boat race was reportedly stopped in the name of “Tawhidi Janata”. Boat racing is a traditional part of Bengali culture and is held in different parts of the country. The source argues that Islamic scholars and devout Muslims have historically opposed obscenity, activities that insult religious beliefs and the spread of anti-Islamic sentiments. They have also protested against works and activities considered offensive to Islam. However, it says that violence, attacks on shrines and disruption of cultural programmes cannot be justified in the name of protecting religious values.
The issue has become more significant as Bangladesh seeks to attract foreign investment. The country needs investment to establish industries, create employment and strengthen economic growth. According to the source, investors from China, Japan, the United States, Europe and the Middle East have shown interest in Bangladesh. At the same time, the country is facing economic challenges, including an energy crisis, weak investment and high unemployment. Any incident that creates uncertainty or security concerns could discourage potential investors.
The report also recalls the experience of the previous government, when militant activities and allegations of militancy created serious concerns. It says that some extremist groups were used during that period to create a perception of militancy, while the scholarly community later took a strong position against militancy. The current concern is whether violent activities carried out in the name of “tawhidi janata” could again create a negative image of Bangladesh abroad.
The source also points to India’s criticism of Bangladesh and argues that such incidents could be used to support claims that Bangladesh is becoming a centre for religious extremism. It questions whether organised groups are deliberately creating such incidents or whether political interests are involved. However, Bangladesh has a long history of religious and cultural coexistence. The report cites the example of Puran Bazar Jame Mosque and Puran Bazar Central Kali Bari Temple in Lalmonirhat, which have stood beside each other for nearly two centuries.
The country’s cultural traditions also reflect this diversity. Jatra, Jari, Sari, Murshidi, Hamd, Naat, Qawali and traditional boat races are part of Bangladesh’s cultural heritage. Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians have also traditionally participated in each other’s social and cultural life. Political leaders also regularly visit religious shrines. Election campaigns in Sylhet, for example, often begin with visits to the shrines of Shah Jalal and Shah Paran.
Islamic scholars and devout Muslims can oppose obscenity, disorder, religious insults and activities that promote hatred without resorting to violence. Attacking shrines, removing bodies from graves and burning them, or disrupting Jari-Sari-Murshidi programmes cannot be considered acceptable means of protecting religious values. The economic implications are also important. Bangladesh needs a stable environment to attract investment and create jobs. If investors fear unrest, violence or uncertainty, they may delay or cancel investment decisions.
The source therefore calls for greater scrutiny of groups acting in the name of “Tawhidi Janata” and urges the authorities to prevent violence and protect both religious freedom and cultural traditions. The broader concern is that Bangladesh should not allow isolated or organised acts of violence to damage its image as a country of religious and social coexistence. At a time when foreign investors are showing interest in the country, maintaining law and order and ensuring a stable investment environment remain essential for economic recovery and job creation.
