Porwar says Delhi influences Bangladesh’s political conflicts

Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar has accused India of exerting significant influence over Bangladesh’s political and economic affairs while urging political parties to prioritise constitutional reforms through parliament.

Speaking to reporters after attending a members’ conference organised by the party’s Narsingdi district unit on Friday, Porwar claimed that New Delhi continued to play a decisive role in Bangladesh’s political developments, as well as in sectors including trade, business and culture.

He said Bangladesh wanted constructive and respectful relations with all neighbouring countries, but added that any action viewed as contrary to Bangladesh’s national interests would not be welcomed by its people.

Porwar also referred to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, alleging that India was providing her with facilities while she remained in the country following her removal from office.

He argued that the issue should be addressed in accordance with legal procedures but stressed that any decision regarding her future rested with the country’s tribunal, the government and the judicial system.

“The matter is before the tribunal. There are laws and there is a government. They will determine the next course of action in line with the legal process,” he said.

During his remarks, the Jamaat leader said those he described as “fascist forces” had been rejected by the public and claimed that the people had played the decisive role in bringing political change despite pressure from state institutions.

Porwar also criticised the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), saying its current position on constitutional amendments did not match its earlier commitment to broader state reforms as outlined in its 31-point programme.

According to him, the party had previously pledged to establish a constitutional reform commission if elected to government but was now focusing only on amendments.

He urged the BNP to avoid political confrontation and instead begin discussions on constitutional reform through parliament.

The Jamaat secretary general also expressed concern over the country’s law and order situation, claiming that incidents of violence, torture and crimes against children had increased recently.

He further alleged that communities affected by recent flooding were not receiving sufficient assistance and that more visible efforts were needed to support rescue, relief and rehabilitation operations.

The conference was organised by the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Narsingdi district unit and chaired by district organiser Md Ibrahim Bhuiyan. Senior leaders, local representatives and party activists attended the event.