Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman has said that his party would work to build “strong, respectful and mutually beneficial” relations with India if voted to power, asserting that diplomacy would be guided by national interest and the will of the people. He also indicated that he would visit India should his party form the government. In an interaction with The Pioneer in Dhaka outlining his political vision, Rahman described Bangladesh as passing through a “natural and healthy democratic process,” dismissing concerns over recent political shifts.
“Transformation is not something to fear. It is part of growth,” Rahman said. “Progress cannot be achieved if we are trapped in red tape or hesitation. We must measure progress not by noise, but by national unity and fairness.” Addressing concerns about inclusivity and minority rights, the Jamaat chief made it clear that he does not endorse the term “minority,” arguing that it fosters division within society. “The moment we use that word, we create division — positions of ‘us’ and ‘them.’ In Bangladesh, there are no second-class citizens.
Every citizen — regardless of religion, belief, or background — is equal under the law and equal in dignity. We are one nation,” he told The Pioneer. Rahman stressed that accommodation, mutual respect and shared responsibility must form the foundation of governance. “Without inclusion, we cannot proceed as a country. But inclusion does not mean labeling people differently. It means recognizing that all of us are Bangladeshi first,” he added. On the issue of elections, Rahman underscored the importance of a conducive political environment for credible polls.
“A truly free, fair and credible election depends on the overall environment and the role of all stakeholders involved in the process. Premature comments or emotional reactions do not strengthen democracy,” he said. Turning to foreign policy, Rahman signalled openness toward New Delhi. “India is our close neighbour, and our engagement will always be based on mutual respect and shared priorities,” he said, adding that if Jamaat-e-Islami forms the government, strengthening ties with India would be among his priorities.
Political observers note that Rahman’s remarks come at a time when Dhaka-New Delhi relations remain a key regional focus. His assurance of engagement with India is being seen as an attempt to position his party as pragmatic on foreign policy while emphasizing domestic unity. Reiterating his core message, Rahman said, “In my vision for Bangladesh, there is no division between communities. There are no minorities. There are only citizens — equal citizens — of one nation.”
Finally, responding to a viral video circulating in Dhaka that alleged Jamaat-e-Islami would bar women from entering politics and that his party is anti-women, Rahman firmly rejected the claims. Speaking to The Pioneer, he said, “How can I be anti-women when I have one wife and two daughters?”
