Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami fields Hindu for parliament
Rare cross-faith nomination strengthens message of unity and expands political space for minorities ahead of Bangladesh’s upcoming parliamentary election
DHAKA, Bangladesh (MNTV) — In a landmark development for minority political representation, Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami has nominated Krishna Nandi, a Hindu community leader, to contest a national parliamentary seat — a decision warmly received as a positive example of inclusive politics and respect for diverse citizenship.
Nandi, who serves as president of the Hindu committee within Jamaat in Khulna district, will stand for election from Khulna-1 in the country’s upcoming national polls. He replaces senior Jamaat figure Maulana Abu Yusuf, who has expressed full support and has already begun campaigning on Nandi’s behalf.
The announcement was made by Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman during a large public gathering on December 1. Party leaders described the nomination as a reflection of Jamaat-e-Islami’s vision of national unity, equal participation, and shared democratic responsibility, regardless of religious identity.
Maulana Emran Hossain, Jamaat’s Khulna district leader, said the decision received unanimous endorsement. “This is a moment of pride for us,” he said, emphasizing that the party values competence, integrity, and public service above religious background.
Nandi said he will soon launch his campaign, expressing hope that his candidacy will inspire wider confidence among minority communities to engage in public life.
Bangladesh is preparing for a crucial national election scheduled for February next year, the first competitive vote following a historic public uprising that restored hopes for democratic renewal. As political alliances evolve, parties are seeking to broaden participation and rebuild trust among diverse communities.
Observers say Jamaat-e-Islami’s nomination of a Hindu candidate demonstrates a meaningful commitment to shared nationhood and representative politics, setting an encouraging example in a region where minority participation is often limited.
The decision has been praised by civil society voices who view it as a forward-looking gesture rooted in Bangladesh’s founding ideals of equality and social harmony.
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