Ending Discrimination Vital for Embracing Freedom's Ideals

What progress have we made towards the goals that Bangladesh aimed for in achieving independence, 53 years later? Have we moved further away from those goals? Is the development of our political culture heading in a positive direction? Where are the weaknesses, and what does the future hold?

It's important to remember that in the post-independence era, we established four principles as symbols of our national dignity: secularism, democracy, nationalism, and socialism. These principles were enshrined in our constitution. However, today, while the constitution maintains these four principles, there's a contradiction as a particular religion has been declared the state religion. The responsibility to rectify this inconsistency rests with those in power. Unfortunately, they have not taken adequate steps to address this issue. We have no doubt that this correction is necessary. We hope for heightened awareness among those in authority regarding the secular nature of our state.

After August 15, 1975, the dark forces of evil emerged from the trash and infiltrated the corridors of power in Bangladesh. Their sudden ascension to power undermined the values of our liberation war, shattering our hopes. For days, they gripped the nation, distorting our foundational document, the constitution, and tarnishing the essence of Bangladesh's independence. Like despots of old, they imposed a militant regime, veiled in distorted religious interpretations, casting a communal shadow over our secular nation.

In this atmosphere, narrow sectarianism replaced the principles of liberal democracy, fracturing our unity. It's imperative to recognise that forging alliances with their sympathisers won't restore peace or national unity. Therefore, I advocate for a return to the unadulterated principles laid out in our fundamental document, the Constitution of 1972. It's puzzling why there's a delay in this crucial task and why our leaders haven't taken action.

During the promulgation of the constitution of Bangladesh, Article 12 explicitly articulated the principle of secularism. It aimed to prohibit all forms of communalism, prevent the state from granting political status to any religion, stop the exploitation of religion for political gain, and eliminate discrimination against or oppression of individuals based on their religious beliefs. Unfortunately, this article was repealed by the Second Proclamation Order of 1978.
The information you provided is quoted from the book 'Jaar Jaar Dharma,' authored by the late Justice Chintak Muhammad Habibur Rahman, shedding light on the issue of the state religion.
Furthermore, Article 38 of the Constitution, concerning the freedom of association, included a condition during its promulgation. This condition stipulated that no individual shall have the right to establish or participate in any society or association bearing a religious name or having religious objectives.

The provision was indeed repealed by the Second Proclamation Order of 1978, a move further supported by the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution. However, the Fifth Amendment was eventually deemed unlawful. With no legal hindrance, there was an opportunity to repeal the clause regarding the state religion and to outlaw theocratic politics and parties. Despite this, the influence of certain individuals with vested interests in religion continues to impact the state.

To rid ourselves of the influence of these individuals and to reinstate Articles 12 and 38 of the Constitution, which would effectively ban anti-public theocratic fundamentalist organisations, immediate action is necessary. It's evident that we've veered dangerously close to Pakistanism, and the specter of Pakistan still looms over us. Unless we eliminate these public enemies, we cannot exorcise the demons haunting our nation.

Therefore, it's imperative for our leaders to not just contemplate but to take active measures. It's not merely a matter of thought; tangible action is required.

After 53 years of independence, Bangladesh has made significant strides in terms of economic growth and development. Our production has increased, and our per capita income has risen. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that this progress hasn't necessarily translated into equitable distribution of wealth among our population.

While per capita income has risen, it's important to examine who exactly is benefiting from this increase and what percentage of the population is still struggling with poverty. Addressing inequality is essential if we are to truly honor the principles of our freedom struggle.

To combat this inequality, we must renew our commitment to socialism and prioritise the elimination of disparities. Special attention should be given to cooperatives as a means to empower marginalised communities and uplift those who have been left behind.

We must resist the forces that seek to drag us back to the dark days of Pakistanism and instead chart a new path forward, one that is built on the principles of equality, justice, and inclusive development. Only then can we truly realise the full potential of our independence and build a brighter future for all Bangladeshis.

We seek salvation from this situation. Who will deliver us? I believe we bear a significant responsibility in this regard. We must inspire our youths. Although a portion of our youth has strayed far from secular ideals and fallen prey to religious fundamentalism, I do not consider this an insurmountable obstacle. Even during the liberation struggle in our independent state, there were elements among the youth who opposed freedom. If we can revive the principles of freedom, democracy, socialism, and secularism among the youth through movements, then the country will reach its desired goals.

In 53 years, just as there is despair, hope is equally present. I have shed light on both hope and despair. Therefore, I earnestly wish that every necessary step to dispel all despair and establish hope will be taken at this moment.

Author: Essayist and Educationist