Thousands of supporters of the Islamist group Hefazat-e-Islam gathered in Dhaka on Saturday to protest proposed legal reforms aimed at improving women’s rights, including property rights. The rally, which drew an estimated 20,000 people, was held near Dhaka University, with placards reading “Say no to Western laws on our women, rise Bangladesh.”
Hefazat-e-Islam leaders argue that the reforms contradict Sharia law and threaten Bangladesh’s cultural and religious values. Group leader Mamunul Haque demanded the dissolution of the government’s reforms commission, accusing it of undermining Islamic inheritance laws. “These changes hurt the sentiments of the majority,” he said.
The group announced plans for nationwide protests on May 23 if their demands aren’t met, threatening further unrest. The rally also called for the banning of the Awami League party, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted in August.
The growing influence of Islamist groups in Bangladesh has raised concerns among minority communities, with reports of increasing intimidation. As tensions rise, the debate over women’s rights and religious law continues to divide the nation.
