The show of strength by the Islamists of Bangladesh at Baitul Mokarram or the national mosque in Dhaka on Friday against the controversial comments on the Prophet has highlighted the mounting challenge against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina who will face an election in 2023.
The protesters heckled and threatened the religious figures associated with the ruling Awami League with the party leaders receiving phone calls from many police stations across the country about public protests against the comments made by two former BJP leaders. Officials and party insiders here maintain that these developments are casting a shadow on PM Hasina's planned visit to India later this year.
"I went to offer my prayer at the Baitul Mokarram, but the aggressive crowd inconvenienced me and I was forced to offer namaz in a separate enclosure. Pressure is mounting on PM Hasina to take a clear stand on this matter. The budget session of our Parliament is underway and a statement in the Parliament will calm public sentiments," said Khandakar Golam Maula Nakshbandi, an influential leader of the Awami League.
