Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami chief and opposition leader Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has called on the Indian government not to harm any particular religion, caste, or community. He made the appeal on Saturday at a press briefing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport after returning from a week-long visit to Japan that began on May 2. Responding to questions about alleged persecution of Muslims in West Bengal, he said his party was monitoring the situation and would act as appropriate as a neighboring country.

Dr. Rahman emphasized that India’s constitution is secular and guarantees equal religious and civic rights for all citizens. He also urged the Bangladesh government to prioritize public safety over political divisions and to take concrete action against criminals instead of relying on social media campaigns. During his trip, he visited Japan and Thailand, meeting injured “July fighters” receiving treatment abroad and urging the government to ensure their medical care and rehabilitation.

He further discussed strengthening Bangladesh–Japan cooperation in education, skills development, and investment, and proposed establishing a modern cancer institute in Bangladesh with Japanese support.