‘End to attacks on shrines’
End to attacks, vandalism and violence against various shrines across the country, speakers said at a protest programme on Saturday.
Hundreds of Sunni scholars, spiritual leaders and followers of different ages gathered at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital, demanding an end to attacks, vandalism and violence against shrines across the country while calling for the expansion of a humane and tolerant interpretation of Islam.
The Sammilito Sunni Pir Mashayek Forum hold a protest titled “Sufibadi Sunni Mahasamavesh” held at Suhrawardy Udyan under the chairmanship Shaykhul Hadith Kazi Muhammad Mueen Uddin Ashrafi, chairman of Ahl-e-Sunnat Wal Jamaet. Protesters called for an end to attacks, vandalism, arson and looting at shrines and religious sites across the country that was mostly vandalised during the tenure of interim government. Speakers also demanded measures against violence against women and children, murder, rape and illegal activities including drug trade, alcohol, gambling and cannabis.
They said Sufism and spirituality represent the essence of Islam, describing the teachings of saints as symbols of peace, equality, brotherhood and social harmony.
The speakers said those who oppose the symbols of peace, tolerance and spiritual values represented by saints and shrines are acting against the principles of Islam and humanity.
They called for strengthening the humane Islam demonstrated by prophets and saints instead of what they described as extremist and violent interpretations.
The speakers said shrines and spiritual centres have long promoted the message of peace and harmony and warned that attacks on such places should not be tolerated.
During the programme, Mueen Uddin said those who attacked shrines and religious sites while using religious slogans were being exposed before the people.
“The identity of a Muslim is not limited to belief in monotheism but also includes respect for the honour and dignity of the Prophet,” he said.
“Those who hate shrines, shrines, and saints are not true Islamists, but rather militants and extremists.”
Dr Allama Syed Emdad Uddin Nizampuri, convener of the Sufi Sunni Mahasamavesh Preparation Committee, delivered the welcome speech, while Pir-e-Tariqat Abul Farah Muhammad Farid Uddin delivered the opening address.
The gathering was also addressed by several Sunni scholars, Pirs and religious leaders, including Bangladesh Islamic Front Chairman MA Matin, Allama Syed Asiyor Rahman Alkaderi, Pir Sirajul Amin Rezvi, S.U.M. Abdus Samad, Principal Farah Mohammad Farid Uddin, Shaikh Allama Usman Gani Salehi, Mao Saiful Islam, Abu Sufian Khan Abedi, Vice Principal Abul Kashem Mohammad Fazlul Haque, Gazi Shafiul Alam Nezami and other religious figures.
Sunni scholars, spiritual leaders, Sajjadanshin Pirs of different shrines, religious teachers and students from across Bangladesh attended the event.
