Apparently in a reference to Jamaat-e-Islami, Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Prof Dr Mizanur Rahman on Saturday said the government can ban through an executive order any political party for its involvement in violent activities.
“Religion-based politics is not banned in the Constitution. However, if any political party is involved in carrying out violent activities or tries to do so in the name of religion, the government can take steps to ban it through an executive order,” he said.
The NHRC chief was addressing a press conference at Chittagong Press Club in the afternoon after visiting various areas in Banshkhali upazila which were hit by atrocities unleashed by ‘Jamaat-Shibir’ men on March 1.
Terming attacks on the minorities and atrocities unleashed across the country ‘tantamount to waging a war against the country’, Dr Mizan urged the government to bring those involved in the incidents to book after proper investigation.
He also urged the political parties to come out of the politics of vengeance to ensure safety of the state and its citizens.
Pointing finger to the disgruntled politicians, the NHRC boss said: “Don’t let loose people against each other, don’t destroy property if you have minimum patriotism. No one wants that property is damaged.”
During his visit to the atrocity-ravaged areas in Banshkhali, the affected minorities alleged to him that the police administration did not provide any help to them during the rampage.
Expressing his dissatisfaction over the police role, Dr Mizan said steps should have been taken quickly to contain the violence. “The administration should be more alert. It’s the responsibility of the state to ensure safety of the life and property of the minority communities.” UNB
