Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has strongly criticized those whom he considers enemies of society for attempting to destroy the country's industrial sector by inciting workers to take to the streets.
He condemned the exploitation of laborers, saying that some owners wish to drain not just their workers’ sweat but their blood as well.
Speaking at a meeting with the families of those martyred in the anti-discrimination movement, organized by Gazipur Metropolitan Jamaat-e-Islami at Rajbari Ground on Friday, Dr Shafiqur Rahman urged society to respect the entrepreneurs and workers who keep the industries alive.
“If you honor them, they will give their all, which will lead to the growth of both the industry and its workers,” he said.
He stressed the need for a society free from discrimination, where every child born is guaranteed food, shelter, healthcare, and quality education by the government.
Dr Shafiqur also addressed the ongoing conflicts between owners and workers, noting that without entrepreneurs, workers would have nowhere to work.
He called for an end to criminal extortion and for peaceful business environments where prices remain affordable.
Referencing the country’s struggle for independence in 1947, 1971, and most recently in 2024, Dr. Shafiqur noted that Bangladesh has made tremendous sacrifices for freedom.
He shared the story of a mother who brought her infant to the streets just two days before the nation’s most recent victory, demonstrating the depth of sacrifice made by ordinary citizens.
He prayed that future generations would be born as warriors to protect the country’s hard-won freedom.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman also emphasized the importance of national unity, calling for the rejection of divisions based on politics, religion, or ethnicity.
He warned against any attempts to divide the nation and said that the Bangladeshi people would no longer tolerate being manipulated by outside forces. "From now on, Bangladeshis will call a spade a spade," he declared, urging for a future without discrimination.
He further condemned the exploitation of the nation’s resources by the educated elite, stating that no corrupt politician or criminal should hold positions of authority.
He called for government officials to be true servants of the state, not of any particular group or individual.
Addressing the persecution of Jamaat-e-Islami, Dr Shafiqur noted that 11 of the party’s top leaders have been killed in what he described as judicial murders, including the recent death of Allama Delwar Hossain Sayedee.
He demanded justice for those responsible for planning and executing these killings and pledged that Jamaat-e-Islami would continue to work towards a just and equitable society.
Dr Shafiqur Rahman concluded by calling for the proper recognition of martyr families, urging the government to provide honorable employment for at least one member of each family.
He also demanded dignified jobs for those who were injured or disabled in the struggle, so that they do not have to live in dependence on others.
