Dhaka — Bangladesh’s Religious Affairs Advisor AFM Khalid Hossain has announced that there are no plans to alter the country’s national anthem. Speaking to the media on Saturday, Hossain assured that the interim government aims to avoid creating controversy.
Recent Controversy
The statement comes after Abdullahil Amaan Azmi, the son of the former Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Ghulam Azam, called for a change to both the national anthem and the Constitution. Azmi argued that the current anthem, created during the Bengal partition, does not reflect the spirit of an independent Bangladesh and was imposed by India in 1971. He suggested forming a new commission to select a new anthem.
Government’s Stance
Hossain emphasized that the interim government is committed to maintaining stability and will not entertain proposals that could incite controversy. He also reiterated Bangladesh’s desire for friendly relations with India despite recent tensions.
Response to Attacks
Hossain addressed reports of attacks on places of worship, labeling them as “heinous” acts. He assured that perpetrators would be prosecuted under existing laws. Additionally, he stated that madrasa students and local citizens will help safeguard temples during Durga Puja to prevent attacks.
Addressing Misconceptions
The advisor also refuted claims that madrasa students were involved in terrorism, calling such allegations propaganda from the previous government. He highlighted that attacks on both Hindu and Muslim homes have occurred since the government change and should be viewed as part of broader unrest rather than targeted violence.
