Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh leaders held a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Saturday evening, where they discussed a range of issues, including their demand for justice, fair compensation for the victims of Shapla Chattar incident that occurred 12 years ago.
The meeting, which took place at the State Guesthouse Jamuna, was attended by Hefazat leaders Maulana Khulil Ahmed Quraishi, Maulana Sajedur Rahman, Mufti Jasim Uddin, Maulana Mahfuzul Haque, Maulana Mohiuddin Rabbani, Maulana Mamunul Haque, Maulana Ahmad Ali Qasemi, Mufti Monir Hossain Qasemi, Maulana Azizul Haque Islamabadi, Mufti Bashir Ullah, and Mufti Kefayetullah Azhari.
During the meeting, Hefazat leaders emphasized the importance of providing compensation to those affected by the violence during the 2013 Shapla Chattar incident. The leaders argued that appropriate financial and moral restitution should be made for the victims, and the collection of evidence and documentation related to the incident should be prioritized.
They also sought international support to press for a proper investigation into the brutal attack on Hefazat’s rally on May 5, 2013, which resulted in numerous casualties. The Hefazat delegation proposed bringing the matter before the United Nations to ensure justice and accountability.
The leaders also discussed the status of various legal cases filed against Hefazat leaders, activists, and Islamic scholars during the previous regime, which they described as “false and politically motivated.” They called for the withdrawal of these cases, stating that many were fabricated to suppress their movement and ideology.
The meeting was also attended by key members of the current government, including Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain, Energy Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, and Industry Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan.
The Hefazat delegation expressed gratitude for the Chief Adviser’s openness to dialogue, and they reiterated their commitment to working within the framework of the law to ensure justice for their supporters and leaders.
The discussions are part of ongoing talks between the Chief Adviser and various political and religious groups aimed at addressing long-standing grievances and ensuring a fair and peaceful election process in the country.
