Hanif reiterates his stance on ‘secularism'

City Awami League President and former mayor Mohammad Hanif speaks at a seminar in the city yesterday. PHOTO: STAR

"Secularism has no value in personal life as every person has own religious faith," Hanif said at a seminar organised by the Centre for Policy Forum (CPF) at the National Press Club.

He said, "Cashing in on the word 'secularism' in the party's constitution, some quarters take the opportunity to campaign against the Awami League, specially during the elections. So, I have suggested replacing the word."

"I am not secular because I believe in Islam and follow its teachings," the AL leader said, adding that "It may be a matter of debate, but I will not change my stance."

Speaking as the chief guest, Prof Muzaffer Ahmad said the term 'state religion' is outdated in the present day order.

Criticising the eighth amendment to the constitution, which established Islam as the state religion, he said, "We did not hear about any state religion even during the periods of caliphs."

Dr Syed Anwar Hossain, vice-chancellor of Darul Ihsan University, said the term 'secularism' is used in the context of a state, it's not personal.

Prof Fariduddin Khan, chairman of the CPF, presided over the seminar.