Introduction
Bangladesh, a nation known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant history, has been grappling with the looming threat posed by Islamist extremist groups, including many so-called pseudo-political groups and political parties, for decades. This article aims to shed light on the sinister and terrorising activities of such groups in the past and explore the potential threats they may pose in the future. By looking back through the prism of history, we can better understand the complex dynamics at play within the nation and the region.
The Historical Context
The roots of Islamist extremism in Bangladesh can be traced back to the pre-independence era when many so-called pseudo-political groups and political parties aligned themselves with the Pakistani government during the 1971 Liberation War. This alliance resulted in the perpetration of heinous crimes, including mass killings and rapes. Though Jamati Islami was subsequently banned, it reemerged as a political force in the 1980s, with a renewed focus on promoting extremist ideologies.
Jamati Islami’s Jihadi Narratives
Many so-called pseudo-political groups and political parties, along with other Islamist groups, have consistently promoted jihadi narratives in Bangladesh. They have exploited religious sentiment and used mosques and madrasas as breeding grounds for radicalisation. The group’s involvement in terror activities, such as bombings and assassinations, has led to a sense of insecurity among both the general population and the minority communities within Bangladesh.
The Role of Madrasas
Madrasas have played a significant role in the radicalisation process. Many religious schools have been accused of providing ideological training supporting extremist agendas. A study by the International Crisis Group (ICG) highlighted that a significant number of militants in Bangladesh have received their early education in such madrasas.
International Connections
Bangladesh’s Islamist extremist groups, including Jamati Islami, have often established connections with international terrorist organisations, such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS. These connections have not only increased the potential for cross-border terrorism but have also exposed Bangladesh to external influences that could further destabilise the region.
The Future Threat
As we consider the future, it is crucial to acknowledge the evolving nature of the threat. While the government of Bangladesh has taken steps to combat extremism and terrorism, including enacting stringent anti-terror laws, the potential for radicalisation remains. The following factors illustrate why this threat persists:
- Economic Vulnerability: Bangladesh faces significant financial challenges, including poverty and unemployment. These conditions can make specific population segments more susceptible to extremist ideologies.
- Social Media and Online Recruitment: Extremist groups have increasingly used social media platforms for recruitment and radicalisation. The anonymity and reach of these platforms make them potent tools for spreading extremist narratives.
- Regional Instability: Political and security dynamics in South Asia can impact Bangladesh’s security situation. Regional conflicts and extremist groups in neighbouring countries can spill over into Bangladesh.
- Inadequate Counterterrorism Measures: Despite government efforts, there may be gaps in intelligence sharing, border security, and counterterrorism measures that extremists could exploit.
Conclusion
The past actions of Islamist extremist groups in Bangladesh, including Jamati Islami, have scarred the nation’s history. The threat they pose is not merely a relic of the past; it continues to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances. To address this menace effectively, Bangladesh must adopt a multifaceted approach that includes socioeconomic development, countering online radicalisation, and strengthening regional cooperation.
As we gaze into the future through the prism of the past, it is clear that vigilance and international collaboration are essential to mitigating the potential threat posed by these groups. Bangladesh’s journey towards a more secure and stable future depends on its ability to address the root causes of extremism while remaining vigilant against the evolving tactics of Islamist extremist groups. There is a cabal of have-a-go offshoots of groups and schools of vile thoughts being preached daily with all sorts of mind-bending ideologies to obliterate prosperity and drag the nation towards the dark alley of impoverishment, marginalisation and segregation.
Bibliography:
- International Crisis Group. (2018). Bangladesh: Back to the Future? [Report]. Retrieved from https://www.crisisgroup.org/asia/south-asia/bangladesh/304-bangladesh-back-future
- Riaz, A. (2017). Faithful Education: Madrassahs in South Asia. Oxford University Press.
- The Daily Star. (2019). Madrasas and Terrorism in Bangladesh. Retrieved from https://www.thedailystar.net/madrasas-and-terrorism-in-bangladesh-1499906
Footnotes:
[1] International Crisis Group, “Bangladesh: Back to the Future?” (2018), https://www.crisisgroup.org/asia/south-asia/bangladesh/304-bangladesh-back-future.
[2] Ali Riaz, “Faithful Education: Madrassahs in South Asia” (2017, Oxford University Press).
[3] The Daily Star, “Madrasas and Terrorism in Bangladesh” (2019), https://www.thedailystar.net/madrasas-and-terrorism-in-bangladesh-1499906.
