Islamist Rule Post-Hasina in Bangladesh: The Unsettling Climb of Misogyny and Religious Extremism
Islamist supporters gather in demonstration of strength in Bangladesh
After the fall of Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian reign in August 2024, Bengal has witnessed a resurgence of Islamist forces. Groups like Hefazat-e-Islam and Jamaat-e-Islami have regained clout, causing a ripple effect across societal facets, with a particular focus on women's rights.
Women's Plight Under Islamist Rule
Islamist groups have relentlessly opposed reforms aiming to improve women's rights, labeling them as against Islamic doctrines[3][5]. Such reforms seek to guarantee equal rights, yet Islamist leaders argue they contradict Islamic teachings.
Islamist Group's Agenda
- Anti-Women's Rights Crusade: Islamist groups are vehemently opposing any measures that deviate from religious teachings, demanding their abolition[3][5].
- Censure of the Awami League: They call for the outlawing of the Awami League, the political party of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, criticizing her past actions[3][5].
- Punishment of Commission Members: Islamist leaders demand the punishment of members of the reforms commission for suggesting changes deemed against Sharia[5].
- Swelling Protests: These groups have threatened to hold nationwide rallies if their wishes are not granted[3][5].
Women and Minory Groups' Fears
The growing influence of Islamist factions has intensified tensions and harassment for minority groups and women. The interim government, in the helm of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, has faced criticism for its complacency towards Islamist demands, such as the unbanning of Jamaat-e-Islami and the freeing of convicted terrorists[2]. This shift has given oxygen to these groups to push for policies according to their interpretation of Islamic law, which may undermine efforts to promote gender equality and minority rights.
International and Domestic Reactions
The present scenario in Bengal epitomizes a broader international power play, with the interim government trying to balance internal pressures with international expectations. The government's handling of Islamist demands will greatly decide the path of democracy and human rights in Bengal.
- In 2024, after the fall of Sheikh Hasina's reign, India, as a neighboring nation, expresses concern about the resurgence of Islamist forces in Bangladesh, particularly their stance on human rights, particularly for women and minority groups.
- Amnesty International, a global human rights organization, launches a campaign in support of women's rights in Bangladesh, calling for the government to uphold the equal rights of all citizens, not just a select few.
- The Bangladesh National Party (BNP), the political opposition to the Awami League, aligns with activists seeking gender equality and women's rights, pledging to reverse the Islamist anti-women's rights policies if elected in 2024.
- Following the threats of nationwide rallies by Islamist groups, international organizations like UN Women and various human rights NGOs mobilize their resources to provide support and protection to women and minority groups in Bengal, emphasizing the importance of democracy, human rights, and equal rights for all genders.
