Govt exploiting public vulnerability, fueling extremist forces: Farhad Mazhar

Poet and political thinker Farhad Mazhar has alleged that the current government is exploiting the vulnerabilities of the people to embolden extremist forces and is complicit in efforts to tarnish Islam's image globally.

Speaking at a protest rally organized by Bhavboithoki in front of the National Press Club on Friday, Mazhar claimed that there is an orchestrated attempt to portray Islam as a “bad religion,” and the government is actively participating in that narrative.

“The government is not only silent but is also fueling these destructive forces. They are taking advantage of the people's weakness and deliberately turning a blind eye,” Mazhar said.

He expressed strong condemnation over recent incidents of shrine vandalism, calling them “criminal offenses” that remain unaddressed by the state. Referring to the Comilla incident, he criticized the role of local authorities as "shameful" and said that despite the criminal nature of such acts, no effective legal action has been taken.

“Destroying a shrine is a punishable offense. Yet, we have seen no evidence that this government has brought the perpetrators to justice,” he added.

Mazhar also expressed concern over the exhumation and burning of a body from a grave, claiming that such incidents have damaged the international image of Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

“We are deeply concerned about the government's inaction. It raises questions about whether there is a broader agenda to humiliate religion on a global scale,” he said.

Addressing Dr. Yunus directly, Mazhar said, “You are going to the UN General Assembly to speak on behalf of the Rohingya. We hope you will also raise your voice for the persecuted people of your own country.”

He further emphasized that domestic issues should not be overlooked in favor of international ones.

“The plight of our own people should not be sidelined. We will soon present a proposal to the advisors of the Home, Religious Affairs, Culture, and Law ministries to form a committee for the restoration and protection of shrines,” Mazhar announced.

Others present at the rally included Baul singer Maharaj Abul Sarkar, Justice and Development Party President Advocate Delwar Hossain, and cultural activist Sujon Sarkar, among others.