Hardline Ideology Spreads in Bangladesh: A Ticking Time Bomb for Social Cohesion

The repatriation of two Bangladeshi construction workers from Singapore has reignited a debate over the growing influence of hardline religious ideologies in Bangladesh. The government claims to be committed to fighting extremism, but the rise of hardline rhetoric and actions on the ground raises concerns about the country’s ability to balance its commitment to pluralism with Islamist demands.

Since the 2024 uprising that ended former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s rule, Bangladesh has seen a significant increase in hardline religious rhetoric, particularly online. This shift is partly due to the re-emergence of suppressed views under Hasina’s leadership and the spread of extremist narratives to new audiences. Asif Bin Ali notes that while violent extremism may not have become mainstream, some ideas once confined to the fringes have gained visibility and social acceptability.

The cases of Tayani Md Risad and Islam Sahedul, who were repatriated from Singapore for their alleged ties to militant organizations, highlight the challenges faced by the government. Their views, although deemed harmless by the Singapore authorities, were seen as a threat to social cohesion in Bangladesh. This raises questions about the government’s ability to protect pluralism while preventing violence and dealing with Islamist groups that seek to impose their ideology.

The “March for Khilafat” organized by banned Hizb ut-Tahrir drew an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 people in Dhaka, indicating a shift towards hardline ideologies. The rally was dispersed, and several participants were arrested, but it shows that extremist narratives are gaining traction among some sections of the population. Islamist pressure has also begun to shape social and cultural life, leading some organizers and communities to scale back activities amid fears of protest or violence.

The government’s credibility will depend on drawing a clear line between legitimate religious politics and intimidation. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led government has pledged firm action against terrorism, violent extremism, and religious militancy, but it remains to be seen whether they can deliver on these promises. The real test lies in addressing the root causes of extremism, including economic frustration and youth unemployment.

The pushback against this trend is notable. Women’s rights advocates, writers, cultural groups, and Sufi communities have protested against intimidation and called for stronger state protection, exposing a widening contest over pluralism, women’s participation, and freedom of expression in Bangladesh. This indicates that there are still forces within Bangladeshi society committed to preserving its rich cultural heritage and promoting tolerance.

The explosion at a madrasah in Keraniganj last December highlighted the threat of terrorism, even if it remains relatively rare. Several suspects were arrested, including madrasah director Sheikh Al Amin, named as the prime accused. This incident serves as a reminder that the government must prioritize addressing extremist ideologies head-on.

The repatriation of Tayani Md Risad and Islam Sahedul has brought attention to the growing problem of hardline ideology in Bangladesh. The question now is whether the government will take decisive action to combat this trend or allow it to continue, potentially destabilizing the country’s fragile social fabric.