Bangladesh bans Jamaat-e-Islami amid violent protests

DHAKA: In response to violent protests against the quota system, the Bangladesh government banned the Jamaat-e-Islami party and its student organisation, Chhatro Shabar.

Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina’s administration labeled Jamaat-e-Islami as a “militant” and “terrorist group”, citing their alleged role in the recent unrest.

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The decision came after extensive student protests demanding changes to the quota system for government jobs. The government attributed the violence during these protests to Jamaat-e-Islami and its affiliated student group.

The Bangladeshi government invoked the anti-terrorism act to enforce the ban, a decision confirmed during a meeting of the 14-party coalition government.

Local media reports indicate that the government’s crackdown on the protests was severe, with over 200 protesters killed and more than 10,000 arrested. Authorities were also reportedly instructed to use lethal force against those who “breached” law and order.

Jamaat-e-Islami leaders have condemned the ban, labeling it as illegal, unconstitutional, and extrajudicial. They argue that the government’s actions directly target the widespread protests and aim to suppress dissent.

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The situation in Bangladesh remains tense as the government’s actions continue to draw significant criticism both domestically and internationally.