Readers’ Voice

Islam upholds the
value of peace

Islam is a religion sent down to offer humanity a life filled with tranquilly and peace, where the endless mercy and compassion of Allah are evident. The word Islam means peace in Arabic. Allah invites all people to embrace Islamic ethics as a model for practicing mercy, compasion, tolerance, and peace. As mentioned in verse 208 of the chapter of al-Baqara:
“O ye who believe! Enter into Islam wholeheartedly, and follow not the footsteps of the Evil One; for he is to you an avowed enemy.”
Regrettably, some followers have strayed from the teachings of this great religion. Individuals who were meant to be ambassadors of peace and mercy to the world are causing disturbances within their communities. Respect for everyone is the core message of Islam.
The entire Muslim ummah must reflect on such incidents, which recur far too frequently, to create a more peaceful society. Authorities must take the necessary measures to eradicate extremist mindsets, and religious fanatics must be dealt with firmly to prevent such actions from recurring.
Marzia Islam
Dhaka

Community radios

In Bangladesh, 14 community radios are operating in different parts of the country to help rural people uplift their socio-economic condition by increasing their access to information and encouraging community action. Currently these radio stations are running as non-profit media. They have only a limited scope for earning revenues to meet their operational costs. It may be mentioned here that the Indian government has allocated 100 crore rupees for the development of the country’s community radio sector. At present, 161 community radios are on air in India.
Community radios are functioning in almost all the countries of the world. So, it is strongly felt that the government should allocate sufficient fund for community radio for its development and better management.

Prof M Zahidul Haque
Dhaka
Control market manipulation

The abnormal surge in commodity prices has made public life unbearable. The price of edible oil has climbed at the peak last week. The abnormal increase in commodity price must be stopped as soon as possible. It needs the quick intervention by the government and related ones to stop the evil cycle of price hike.
The unscrupulous traders, syndicates as well middlemen, who don’t give up a single opportunity to make profit even during the national crisis moment, must be taken under punishment. It is the urge of time to stop the cycle of syndication and hoarding.

Sadia Afrin Kumu
IR Student, BSMRSTU