Religion should not be dragged into politics: Mirza Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said religion should not be used in politics, warning that doing so creates bias in a multi-faith society like Bangladesh.

“Our country is home to people of different religions, including Hindus and Buddhists. Bringing religion into politics leads to discrimination. The use of religion in politics is not right,” he said.

Mirza Fakhrul made the remarks while addressing an election campaign gathering at the Barunagaon Dakhil Madrasa ground in Salandar Union on Sunday afternoon (January 25).

Referring to the BNP’s recent political struggle, he said the party and its leaders had faced widespread repression over the past 15 years. “There is not a single BNP leader or activist who has not faced cases. Cases were filed against around six million people across the country, including about 7,500 in Thakurgaon alone,” he said.

He alleged that BNP leaders and activists endured immense hardship, spending money and facing police harassment. “After Sheikh Hasina fled, those cases were withdrawn. What the Awami League has done, no one from our party will ever do,” he added.

Highlighting the BNP’s policy pledges, Mirza Fakhrul said the party differs from Jamaat-e-Islami as it is a “tested and proven” political force. “People know BNP well. If we come to power, mothers will be given family cards to purchase rice, lentils and flour at fair prices. Medical treatment will be ensured at hospitals, and families will be supported in educating their children,” he said.

He also announced plans to introduce agriculture cards for farmers to ensure fertiliser and pesticides are available at reasonable prices.