Dhaka, Jan 04 (V7N)— Followers of Shura-e-Nezam, led by Maulana Zobair, have announced a nationwide protest program on January 10, demanding the arrest, trial, and banning of Tablighi Jamaat followers. The declaration was made during a press conference held at the Kakrail Mosque premises on Saturday afternoon.

Maulana Nazmul Hasan Qasemi, a pro-Zobair leader, highlighted the violent clashes at the Tongi Ijtema Maidan in 2018 and the recent tragic incident in December 2024, which left three people dead. He stated, "Had the 2018 incident been prosecuted, the recent killings could have been avoided. If the perpetrators are not punished this time, such incidents may recur."

Khilafat Majlis Secretary General Maulana Mamunul Haque condemned the killings and called for justice. He emphasized, "The attack and murder must be punished. The controversial remarks by an Indian individual regarding Tablighi Jamaat have caused problems there, but those issues should not spill over into Bangladesh. The murder must be addressed legally, while discussions should remain peaceful."

He further claimed that Saad followers, accused of being involved in the December violence, had lost their right to organize the first phase of the Ijtema, scheduled to begin on January 31.

Prominent Islamic scholars and leaders present at the press conference included Allama Shah Muhibullah Babunagari, Ameer of Hefazat-e-Islam; Allama Khalil Ahmed Qureshi, Director General of Hathazari Madrasa; Allama Shaykh Sajidur Rahman, Secretary General of Hefazat-e-Islam; and Maulana Mahfuzur Haque, Secretary General of Befaqul Madarisil Arabia.

The protest announcement signals escalating tensions within the Islamic community over the management and participation in the Ijtema, an annual congregation of Tablighi Jamaat followers. Authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely to prevent further unrest.

END/MSS/AJ