Islam and politics in Bangladesh (1971-90)

Abstract

The study examines and analyzes various Islamic policies and programs undertaken by the governments of Bangladesh from 1971 to 1990. The first post-independent regime led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (1971-75) adopted nationalism, democracy, secularism and socialism as the principles of state policy. It tried to abolish Islamic symbols from every sphere of 1ife and adopted pro-Indo-Soviet stand. But within two years of his rule, the emergence of Islamic forces as well as slow disbursement of aid from Western donors forced Mujib to adopt some conciliatory policies towards Islam. General Zia, who ruled from 1976-81, abolished two of the four fundamental principles secularism and socialism and popularized `Bangladeshi Nationalism` thus distinguishing Bangladeshis from Bengalis living in India. The study shows that Zia`s commitment towards Islam was intended to bolster legitimacy of his regime and to gain external support. His so-called Islamization policies attracted the masses and support from donors. General Ershad (1982-90), went further by declaring Islam as a state religion. The declaration, however, was not followed by any concrete steps towards Islamization. He failed to win the support of masses though he remain in power for nearly nine years. Thus the study shows that the Islamization initiatives made during the period were symbolic than real and consequently they failed to make much headway in transforming the Bangladesh society along the lines of Islam. Jama`at-e-Islami Bangladesh (JIB), has been committed and striving for the establishment of an Islamic state. Although it has had a considerable influence on the Islamization programs initiated by above regimes JIB has not been able to muster popular support in order to enable it to form the government. The JIB`s support towards united Pakistan during the independence movement, strict cadre system within the party, as well as attack from different quarters including the media, liberals and ulamas, have contributed to JIB`s failure to win mass support. The mass support still belongs to `Muslim Nationalist` like Zia. The study concludes that JIB has to come up with practical explanations on many important issues such as the status of women and non-Muslims in the Islamic state if it wants to be among the main players in Bangladesh politics.