Maulana Saad supporters submit memorandum to CA

Leaders of a faction of Tablighi Jamaat, led by Indian cleric Maulana Saad Kandhalvi, have submitted a memorandum to Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, demanding permission for Maulana Saad to attend the Bishwa Ijtema. 

On Tuesday morning, the memorandum was received by the Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Md Shafiqul Alam on behalf of the adviser.

The memorandum, signed by Syed Wasif Islam of Tablighi Jamaat's Bangladesh Shura, said: "Your interim government has been established through significant sacrifices and mass movements. We pray to Almighty Allah for the success of this government in eradicating oppression and ensuring justice across all levels of the state."

Highlighting the non-political and peaceful nature of Tablighi Jamaat’s activities, the memorandum mentioned that this global effort originated nearly a century ago from the Nizamuddin Banglawali Mosque in Delhi under the leadership of Hazrat Maulana Ilyas (RA).

It continues to thrive globally, led by Hazrat Maulana Saad Kandhalvi from the Nizamuddin World Markaz Mosque. 

The memorandum emphasized Maulana Saad’s contributions, saying that as a learned scholar, he used to deliver valuable sermons during the Bishwa Ijtema based on the Quran and Hadith.

Previously, he participated in the Ijtema every year, including conducting key sermons and the concluding prayer (Akheri Munajat). However, since 2018, he has been denied a visa to Bangladesh without any justifiable reason, it read.

The memorandum argued that allowing Maulana Saad’s presence would attract more international participants, enhancing Bangladesh’s global reputation and earning significant foreign currency.

It also noted his active participation in similar events worldwide, including South Africa, Ethiopia, Malaysia, Morocco, England, Sudan, and Nepal, as well as across various states in India. 

Syed Wasif Islam expressed frustration, saying: "We cannot provide a satisfactory answer to foreigners when they ask why a distinguished scholar like Maulana Saad is not allowed to visit Bangladesh. Moreover, millions of Tablighi members in Bangladesh have been deprived of his invaluable sermons for six years, causing them deep pain. Therefore, we earnestly request you to ensure his presence at the upcoming Ijtema."

On Tuesday morning, thousands of supporters protested in front of Kakrail Mosque, demanding Maulana Saad’s participation in the Ijtema.

They chanted slogans in favor of his arrival.

When they attempted to march towards the Chief Adviser’s residence, police blocked their path, leading them to stage a sit-in, which caused significant traffic congestion.

Around 11am, the protesters submitted the memorandum and vacated the area. 

The first phase of the Bishwa Ijtema is scheduled from January 31 to February 2, 2025, followed by the second phase from February 7 to 9.

Supporters of Maulana Saad are eager for his presence during the second phase.