Struggle for freedom

Secularism is the founding principle of our nation and when Bangladesh's constitution was first drawn up it stated secularism as the fundamental principle of the republic. But as Bangladesh lost democracy and plunged into a dark age of military autocracy and dictatorship, secularism was banished from the constitution. General Ershad amended the constitution and introduced Islam as the state religion. Yes, Islam is the religion of the majority but the state is accountable not only to Muslims but to all Bangladeshis including Hindus, Buddhists and Christians. After the restoration of democracy, successive elected governments have failed to restore secularism as the spirit of the Bangladesh constitution. This expulsion of secularism has given rise to religion-based politics and Islamic fanaticism. A section of the political elite has nurtured these lunatics who are today at the helm of power in Bangladesh. They do not reflect the true face Islam, which is compassionate, charitable and benevolent. Some are even war criminals who collaborated with the occupation forces in 1971.

It is my firm belief that in order for Bangladesh to progress as a mature democracy, it is compulsory for secularism to be reinstated into the Bangladesh constitution. It is essential for bringing equality and freedom to each individual citizen of Bangladesh.