Minister questions Jamaat stance on Sharia law

Speaking at a memorial event in Dhaka on Thursday, he raised a direct question: “Do they want to come to power by following the existing constitutional laws of the country, or are they doing politics with the promise of establishing Sharia law?”

The minister was addressing a gathering at the National Press Club marking the 17th death anniversary of former minister Sunil Gupta.

Zahir Uddin Swapon referred to recent parliamentary discussions, noting that opposition leaders, particularly from Jamaat-e-Islami, had spoken about establishing Sharia law. However, he pointed out that Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman had earlier assured a Christian delegation on 14 January that the party would not introduce such a system if it came to power.

“I do not want to make any comments. I just want to know through the media what their real position is,” he said. “Their clear position on this issue needs to be presented before the nation.”

He said Bangladeshi nationalism supports a diverse and inclusive political system, where people of all religions and communities can coexist equally. He argued that societies which embrace diversity are more stable and progressive.

The minister also reflected on Jamaat’s political evolution, saying the party has changed its stance over time. He noted that its founder once advocated for an Islamic constitution and opposed the creation of Pakistan, before later accepting it.

While acknowledging some recent steps by Jamaat, including nominating candidates from non-Muslim communities, he said there remains inconsistency in its current position.

Zahir Uddin Swapon highlighted the legacy of leaders like Sunil Gupta, saying they emerged from a political environment shaped by pluralism under former President Ziaur Rahman.

He also stressed that all religions share common values, despite differences in practice. He said it is the responsibility of both the state and society to uphold these shared principles.

The event was chaired by Bijan Kanti Sarkar, special assistant to the Prime Minister, and organised by the Sunil Gupta Memorial Sangsad. Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam and BNP chairperson’s adviser Nazmul Haque Nannu also spoke, recalling Sunil Gupta’s contributions to national politics.