Jamaat provoking divisive politics using religion: NCP

The National Citizens Party (NCP) has said that Jamaat-e-Islami is provoking politics of division, hatred and violence by using religion as a political tool.

This was stated in a statement sent on Monday, December 8, by Mushfiq Us Saleheen, joint member-secretary and media cell director of the party.

The statement said that NCP strongly rejects and condemns the false, baseless and misleading statement issued by Jamaat-e-Islami on December 7 targeting NCP member-secretary Akhtar Hossain. The party termed the statement unrealistic, devoid of political etiquette and a clear attempt to mislead public opinion.

According to NCP, during the launch of the National Professionals Alliance at Bishwo Shahitto Kendro on December 6, NCP member-secretary Akhtar Hossain made evidence-based comments regarding recent incidents of violence, which were factual and responsible. It said that Tushar Mondol, who fired shots during a clash over election campaigning at Ishwardi Police Station, Pabna, on November 27, is indeed a member of Jamaat-e-Islami, which the district detective police have confirmed, and he was arrested along with firearms and ammunition. Denying these facts, NCP said, is nothing but an unacceptable attempt to conceal truth and avoid responsibility.

The statement said NCP believes that Jamaat-e-Islami is instigating divisive, hateful and violent politics by using religion as a tool. Instead of embracing the new political culture since August 5, they are attempting to emerge as a “new player” in the old violent and domineering politics, which is an ominous sign for the country.

NCP clarified that violence, reliance on weapons and misuse of religion go against democratic political culture. Ahead of the next national election, responsible behaviour from all political parties is essential for peace, security and stability.

The National Citizens Party called on Jamaat-e-Islami to take a clear stance on truth, peace and democratic values.