Islami Andolan Bangladesh has strongly condemned an alleged attack on Maria Kamal, daughter of the party’s candidate for the Bhola-4 (Monpura and Char Fasson) constituency, AKM Kamal Hossain. The party claims the assault was carried out by activists of the ‘Scale’ (Jamaat-e-Islami) symbol during electioneering on Wednesday.
In a statement issued today, Professor Mahbubur Rahman, Convener of the Central Election Management Committee and Presidium Member of Islami Andolan, demanded the immediate arrest of those involved to ensure a fair and festive electoral environment.
Details of the Incident
According to the statement, the incident occurred around 9:00 AM–9:30 AM today while Maria Kamal was leading a 5-7 member female team for door-to-door campaigning (Dawah work) in Ward 6 of the municipality. She was accompanied by the candidate’s son, Muhammad Tashfin, and District Youth Movement President Maulana Faisal Ahmad.
Professor Mahbubur Rahman alleged that two individuals, identified as Mohammad Sohel Hawladar (son of Fazlul Huq Hawladar) and Alauddin (son of Zakir), representing the ‘Scale’ symbol, obstructed their campaign. The attackers reportedly pushed Tashfin and the District Youth Movement Secretary to the ground. In the ensuing scuffle, Maria Kamal was also reportedly assaulted and pushed down.
“Such behavior is completely unexpected in the post-July uprising political culture. It is particularly shocking and infuriating when it comes from an organization that carries an Islamic name,” said Professor Mahbubur Rahman.
Call for Action
The Islami Andolan leader urged the administration to arrest the perpetrators immediately and bring them to exemplary justice. He also directly addressed the leadership of Jamaat-e-Islami, questioning where their activists learn the audacity to assault a woman.
“We call upon Jamaat-e-Islami leaders to take action against their unruly workers. Otherwise, they will be held responsible for any situation that arises,” the statement warned.
The press release was sent by Sheikh Fazlul Karim Maruf, Central Publicity and Dawah Secretary of Islami Andolan Bangladesh.
