90% of the Bangladeshi population is Muslim, hence, remove the word ‘secularism’ from the Constitution

Attorney General Mohammad Asazzaman’s argument in Court

Dhaka (Bangladesh) – Bangladesh’s Attorney General, Mohammad Asazzaman, has advocated for the removal of the word ‘secularism’ from the Constitution. During a Court hearing on the validity of the 15th constitutional amendment, Asazzaman argued that “democracy must be evident in the country’s constitutional amendments to prevent misuse of power.”

While presenting his argument, Asazzaman said that, “Since 90% of Bangladesh’s population is Muslim, the word ‘secularism’ should be removed from the Constitution. In the past, there has always been faith in Allah, and I wish that faith remains unchanged. Article 2A states that State shall ensure equal rights and equality in religious practices, while Article 9 speaks of ‘Bengali nationalism’. This is contradictory. Constitutional amendments should reflect democracy and avoid fostering abuse of power. Articles 7A and 7B, by prohibiting any amendments or changes, could stifle democracy. Such laws should be revised as they consolidate political power and weaken democratic principles.”

The term ‘Father of the Nation’ divides the country

Asaduzzaman also argued that labelling Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the ‘Father of the Nation,’ along with similar amendments, creates societal division and limits freedom of expression. While acknowledging the appropriateness of honouring Sheikh Mujibur’s contributions, he argued that legally enforcing such a title causes division within the country.

Editorial Perspectives

• This indicates that Bangladesh is in the preparations to declare itself an Islamic State.

• Now, if someone makes a similar demand in India to remove the word ‘secularism’ from its Constitution and replace it with ‘Hindu Rashtra,’ how could it be deemed wrong ?