Militancy Bangladesh's new crisis

Speakers at a rally yesterday called for a social movement to prevent communalism and militancy, and underscored the need for engaging Islamic scholars in it.

War Crimes Facts Finding Committee organised the rally titled "Social Prevention in Restraining Militancy-Terrorism" at the capital's Jatiya Press Club.

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Addressing as chief guest, Professor Emeritus Dr Anisuzzaman said Bangladesh was facing a new crisis -- communalism and militancy.

"Our society is not united like 1971. It is divided into many groups and ideologies. In the past, people came out spontaneously to prevent communal riots. We need to bring that spirit back."

He said a true Muslim did not hurt anayone through his word or action, and Islamic clerics should spread the message.

Chairman of Bangladesh Jamiatul Ulema Parishad Maulana Fariduddin Masud said there was a gap between Islamic clerics and general people, which needed to be reduced to fight militancy.

University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof Abdul Mannan urged Islamic clerics to raise awareness against militancy at mosques.