New Dhaka Times: Desk Report
Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh has strongly objected to the newly introduced 20 taka note in Bangladesh. The organization views the replacement of the mosque image with that of a temple on the new note as an offense to the religious sentiments of the country’s Muslim majority. As a result, the group has demanded the withdrawal of the new note.
In a statement sent to the media on Wednesday, June 4, Hefazat-e-Islam’s Amir Allama Muhibullah Babunagari and Secretary General Allama Shaykh Sajidur Rahman made this demand. In the statement, they also extended greetings of Eid-ul-Azha to Muslims in Bangladesh and around the world, describing the festival as one that teaches sacrifice, sincerity, and obedience to Allah.
They stated that this holy day reminds us that the lasting welfare of a nation lies in upholding justice, unity, and religious values.
The two leaders expressed concern in the statement, noting that the current interim government has issued a new 20 taka note that excludes the image of a mosque and instead features pictures of a temple and a Buddhist monastery. According to them, this design disregards the fact that 92 percent of Bangladesh’s population is Muslim, and thus amounts to disrespecting religious sentiments.
They emphasized that the symbols and designs of a Muslim-majority country should reflect Islamic culture and beliefs. Any deviation from this could pose a threat to national unity.
The Hefazat leaders expressed deep disappointment and sorrow that such a controversial note was released during the joyful occasion of Eid. They believe this act disrespects the identity of the majority religion and creates unnecessary controversy around the government. They called for those involved in designing the note to be specifically identified and held accountable.
The leaders expressed hope that the interim government will swiftly withdraw the controversial note and release a new design that respects the emotions and religious values of Bangladeshi Muslims.
At the end of the statement, they called on all Islamic political and non-political organizations in the country to remain vocal on this issue. They also urged everyone to unite for the sake of Islam and the nation.