'Coalition politics main reason behind militancy'

Dr Imtiaz Hussain of Universidad Iberoamericana, Mexico, said this in his keynote speech at the seminar on 'The Rise of Fundamentalism and Its Implications' organised by Bangladesh Institute of Law and International Affairs (Bilia) at its auditorium.

He pointed out that with the rise of fundamentalism, secularism -- one of the four basic principles enshrined in the constitution -- disappeared from the social and political aspects.

The coalition politics in the country is critical, and the direction of the nation depends on how the key party in the coalition government acts to direct the nation, Dr Imtiaz said.

"It is probably crucial how they bend or do not bend according to the coalition partners, especially when the major body in the alliance has Islamic-base," the professor added.

Defining the term 'fundamentalism' as 'back to origin', Dr Imtiaz cited instances from the world history and said the practice of fundamentalism is not only limited to religious aspects, but also to political, economic and social aspects.

As probable solutions to the recent Islamic fundamentalism issues, Dr Imtiaz suggested that the government should let the militants talk for themselves, from the point of view of democracy, before branding them outlaws.

He also suggested holding talks and dialogues with the opposition parties to exchange views on the issue, and let the voters decide what to do. "Moreover, it is very important to respect the people's opinion," he said.

He also asked the political leaders to demonstrate good behaviour towards the people and refrain from corruption. Otherwise, the fundamentalists would capitalise on bad behaviour and corruption of the politicians and make issues out of them, he said.

Consulting Editor of Amader Shomoy Khandker Rashidul Huq Naba spoke as a respondent in the seminar chaired by Bilia Director and former ambassador Wali-ur Rahman.

Lawyers, intellectuals, government officials, students and former diplomats attended the seminar.