Former Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, Tazul Islam, stated that Islamic scholars and Muslims are the true bearers and protectors of Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty. He made this remark on Friday while speaking at a discussion organized by Shapla Smriti Sangsad to commemorate and evaluate the May 5 massacre.

During his speech, Tazul Islam argued that the May 5 killings were not intended to suppress the rise of Islam but were instead an attempt by what he called a fascist government to remove faith from the nation’s culture. He said the goal was to create an environment where people would fear expressing their religious identity, such as wearing caps or keeping beards.

He further warned that if Muslims do not take an active role in protecting their beliefs and values, the country may face repeated confrontations similar to the Shapla Chattar incident.