Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam criticized a New York Times article depicting Bangladesh as being on the brink of religious extremism. He emphasized the resilience, democratic spirit, and empowerment efforts within the country. Alam called for a balanced view of Bangladesh’s progress while addressing the pervasive issue of extremism globally, asserting the importance of supporting diverse communities.

On Tuesday, Shafiqul Alam, the Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, criticized a New York Times article for presenting a troubling and one-sided perspective of Bangladesh. Alam emphasized that the nation’s history of resilience, democratic commitment, and prioritization of women’s empowerment showcase its progress. He argued for recognizing the broader context of Bangladesh’s advancements rather than fixating on negative examples.

Alam expressed concern that the article titled “As Bangladesh Reinvents Itself, Islamist Hard-Liners See an Opening” oversimplifies the political landscape, suggesting an imminent rise of religious extremism in the country. He cautioned against the potential harm of such portrayals, which he believes unfairly characterize a nation of 180 million people, risking harmful stereotypes and misconceptions.

He urged that the complexities of Bangladesh’s situation, including the strides made over the past year, merit acknowledgment instead of sensationalistic narratives. Alam asserted that the escalation of extremism should not be viewed as an inevitable consequence of the political landscape, noting the significant strength of Bangladesh’s democratic spirit and civil society which counteract extremist ideologies.

He stated, “The people of Bangladesh, particularly its youth and women, are determined to continue the fight for a just, democratic, and inclusive society.” Alam also highlighted that Bangladesh is not alone in combating religious extremism, as it is a global issue affecting many nations in various forms.

To combat these challenges, he affirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to law enforcement, social reforms, and counterterrorism measures. He assured that the government’s dedication to protecting the nation’s diverse communities—Muslims, Hindus, Christians, and others—remains unwavering. Alam concluded by underscoring the importance of denying platforms to hate-driven narratives while encouraging a united front against hostility.

In conclusion, Shafiqul Alam’s remarks serve to underscore Bangladesh’s ongoing resilience and commitment to democracy amidst challenges. He advocates for a more nuanced understanding of Bangladesh’s complexities, rejecting fatalistic views of extremism. With significant strides made towards empowerment and inclusivity, Alam illustrates that the journey of Bangladesh is marked by hope and determination, rather than despair.

Original Source: unb.com.bd

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