Addressing people of all religions, including Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians, the Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, stated, “Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami envisions building a nation of equality, where people of all faiths can live without fear. They will live with dignity in this country. No one will harm their lives, property, or honor.” He called on Jamaat leaders and workers to spread this vision of equality to every household.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman made these remarks as the chief guest at a massive workers' conference held on January 25, Saturday, at Gor-e-Shahid Bara Maidan in Dinajpur. The conference was presided over by Dinajpur District Ameer, Principal Anisur Rahman, and hosted by District Secretary Dr. Enamul Haque.

Special guests at the event included Assistant Secretary General and Rangpur-Dinajpur Regional coordinator Maulana Abdul Halim; Central Executive Council Member and Assistant Regional coordinator Principal Maulana Momtaz Uddin; Central Executive Council and Regional Team Member Professor Mahbubur Rahman Belal; and Central Majlis-e-Shura Member, former Central President of Islami Chhatrashibir, and Dhaka City South Assistant Secretary Md. Delwar Hossain.

During his address, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman reassured the youth of the nation, saying, “To our children who chanted, ‘We want justice,’ we are with you. We are grateful for your contributions, and you are our pride. We want to entrust the future of Bangladesh into your hands. Before I die, I wish to witness a Bangladesh of equality, harmony, and humanity. This is the Bangladesh for which we struggle and aspire.”

Referring to remarks made by a Hindu principal during the conference, the Jamaat Ameer noted, “A respected Hindu leader and college principal expressed his desire to live in a Bangladesh free from fear. To them, I say, identify the political group that has not seized your lands, looted your resources, or attacked your honor over the past 54 years. Look for that group with the eyes of your conscience, and you will find them.”

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman concluded his speech by urging everyone to join the collective effort to build a Bangladesh rooted in equality, harmony, and humanity.

He further stated, "I will not go too far back in time. I will only go back six months. On August 5, a revolutionary change occurred in this country. Some called it a mass revolution, while others referred to it as a mass uprising. No matter what people call it, we were aware from day one. A certain conspiratorial group, known for their inherently bad traits, could again create chaos in society. That is why I called upon my colleagues and the people of this country, warning them to stay alert. Be patient, stay calm, and cooperate in establishing order.

He remarked, "The fascist government had exiled justice. This is why judges could arrogantly claim, 'We are sworn politicians.' Those who protested such remarks were later harassed, even though these lawyers’ deserved recognition and awards.

He added, "We urge the current government to implement reforms quickly. However, there is one more reform you should address. This may be achievable by a neutral government, but it is unlikely under a partisan one. Publish a blacklist of those who, over the past 54 years, have oppressed people of different religions in Bangladesh—those who committed murder, rape, looting, land grabbing, extortion, or other crimes. Reveal their identities so the public can recognize them."

He accused the fascist government of habitually blaming Jamaat-e-Islami whenever anything happens. "This is their bad habit. They fear Jamaat even in their sleep. They are terrified of Jamaat’s principles and ideals. Out of this fear, they attempt to harm us. They commit atrocities themselves and shift the blame onto us.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman stated, We want to make one thing clear: Bangladesh is home to people of various religions. We do not recognize the concept of ‘majority’ and ‘minority’ in this country. We firmly believe that anyone born in Bangladesh has been granted equal rights under the Constitution. Therefore, they are dignified citizens. You must never consider yourselves a minority. It is precisely because of being labeled as a ‘minority’ that you have endured oppression for so long. You are our brothers and sisters. With empathy and pride, we want to live together with you in Bangladesh."

He further said, “If Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami comes to power, no one will be judged by their religion. Instead, people will be judged based on their suitability for responsibilities. Whoever is most capable for a role will be entrusted with that responsibility.”

From October 28, 2006, to August 5, 2024, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman expressed condolences for the casualties and said, “Our 11 top leaders were brutally executed by hanging. They were falsely accused, tried in manipulated courts, and convicted with fabricated evidence. These individuals loved Bangladesh. Those involved in murder and assault could not tolerate such honest people. Jamaat-e-Islami’s members feared Allah, which is why they stayed away from such heinous acts. The Awami League imprisoned even infants, sparing neither the elderly nor religious scholars.

Maulana Abdul Halim recalled the fascist government’s refusal to allow the funeral prayer of Jamaat’s former Nayeb-e-Ameer in an open field, highlighting the people’s determination to oust the oppressors. He urged political leaders to avoid statements that empower fascists and hinder the youth and people’s goals. He also called for proportional representation in elections under an interim government, asserting that Jamaat-e-Islami aspires to build a Bangladesh of equality, humanity, and harmony.

Maulana Momtaz Uddin said, “A group believed Jamaat-e-Islami had been eradicated, but instead, we have strengthened ourselves with faith. This worker’s conference is turning into a massive rally.” He urged Jamaat workers to spread the message of faith among the people.

Professor Mahbubur Rahman Belal accused the country of being held hostage by a “murderous and looter” for 16 years, referring to the leader’s alleged involvement in killings, abductions, and corruption. He criticized India’s interference in Bangladesh and called for Sheikh Hasina to face justice for all killings. He added, “We dream of a Bangladesh free from bribery, corruption, and oppression, where mothers and sisters live safely, and exploitation is absent. Despite losing 11 of our top leaders, we have survived with double the strength.”

Northern region leader ATM Azharul Islam’s release was also demanded in the program. Maulana Abdul Hakim said, “Peace will not come to this country until divine laws are implemented. Leadership has changed repeatedly, but without a change in principles, peace has not been achieved.”

Former Islami Chhatrashibir president and assistant district secretary Rajibur Rahman Palash stated, “Tyranny cannot halt the march of faith and victory. Together with the living martyrs, we will build a prosperous and peaceful country. We hear the footsteps of new fascism, but we cannot allow them another chance.”

In an emotional statement, non-Muslim leader Nitai Chandra Debnath expressed gratitude for Jamaat’s support during the turmoil after August 5. He said, “Without Jamaat-Shibir, who stood as our shield, our lives and property would not have been saved. Even though I never voted for them, their actions moved me to join Jamaat. Many others have joined as well. I hope Jamaat wins in every constituency. Under their governance, we will feel safe.”

Former Ameer of Dinajpur District, Mohammad Anwarul Islam, stated, "Among the 13 upazilas, 7 are bordering regions. Due to looting, there has been no development here."

Another former Ameer of Dinajpur District, Mohammad Aftab Uddin Molla, added, "Due to looting, industries have not been established in Dinajpur. If we want development, we must implement the laws of the Qur'an in the future."

Professor Belal Uddin Pradhan, Amir of Thakurgaon District, said, "We want to gift a Bangladesh free from exploitation. For that, an Islamic revival is necessary."

Professor Iqbal Hossain, Amir of Panchagarh District, stated, "We want to build a future Bangladesh free from fascism, inequality, corruption, and extortion. Strengthen Jamaat-e-Islami’s hand for this purpose."