Bangladesh Shifts Towards Islamic Identity: Attorney General Advocates for Removal of Secularism and Bengali Nationalism from Constitution

In a significant political shift, Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Sheikh Hasina’s successor, has shown growing signs of aligning with a more conservative, Islamic identity. The country’s Attorney General, Mohammad Asaduzzaman, recently sparked controversy by stating that secularism is no longer necessary in Bangladesh. This statement came during a hearing in the High Court regarding a petition challenging the 15th Amendment to the country’s constitution, which was introduced in 2011 under Hasina’s government.

The 15th Amendment, which declared Bangladesh a secular state and recognized Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founder of the nation, as the Father of the Nation, marked a pivotal moment in the country’s political history. It also expanded the representation of women in politics. However, the current interim government is now seeking to reverse these changes, particularly the secular nature of the state, with Attorney General Asaduzzaman arguing that with 90% of the population being Muslim, secularism is unnecessary.

A Push for Islamic Ideology and Removal of Bengali Nationalism

In a further shift, the Attorney General suggested that the country’s official religion, Islam, should be emphasized more prominently, and secular provisions should be removed from the constitution. While he acknowledged the rights of religious minorities, including Hindus, to practice their faith, he insisted that Islam should be the guiding force in the country’s governance. Additionally, he proposed the removal of Bengali nationalism, which has been a core aspect of the nation’s identity since independence. He argued that such an identity could undermine the contributions of other ethnic groups that participated in Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.

This movement is seen as a departure from the secular ideals upheld by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his successors, signaling a potential ideological shift towards a more Islam-centric national identity. The interim government’s stance on these issues reflects a broader trend of increasing religious conservatism, which is reshaping the political landscape of Bangladesh.

The case regarding the removal of secularism and Bengali nationalism from the constitution continues to unfold, with significant implications for the country’s future trajectory. As the debate intensifies, many are watching closely to see how Bangladesh will navigate these fundamental changes to its national identity.