BNP candidate Tulee sued for ‘hurting religious sentiment’

The Police Bureau of Investigation has been ordered to submit a report by Jan 26

BNP’s Dhaka-14 candidate Sanjida Islam Tulee, known for leading the anti-disappearance campaign under the banner “Mayer Dak”, has been sued by a businessman from Old Dhaka over “hurting religious sentiment”.

The complaint was lodged on Wednesday before Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Md Arifur Rahman by Hossain Mohammad Anwar, also known as Anwar Hossain, a businessman and “social worker” from Kazi Alauddin Road in Old Dhaka.

After hearing the complainant, the court accepted the petition and instructed the Police Bureau of Investigation to examine the allegations and submit its findings by Jan 26, according to Sirajul Islam Sheikh, bench assistant at the court.

The charge stems from remarks Tulee made at a rally on Nov 14 outside the National Museum at Shahbagh, organised by “Nari O Shishu Forum” under the theme “Growing violence and disrespect against women: a conscious society prepared to resist”. Her comments circulated widely online and drew criticism across social media.

The event also discussed statements made on Oct 27 by Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman regarding shorter working hours for women, which had triggered widespread backlash and shouts of protest at the rally.

The complaint argues that Article 41 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of religious practice, and that marriage is an important religious rite in Islam. Citing Surah An-Nisa, Ayat 3, it notes that a Muslim man may marry up to four wives. It further references the Muslim Personal Law (Shariah) Application Act, 1937, under which matters such as marriage, maintenance, and divorce for Muslims fall under Islamic law.

The petition claims Tulee made “derogatory” comments about Islamic marriage, thereby “insulting” Islam and “hurting the religious beliefs” of Muslims -- an offence punishable under Section 295(A) of the Penal Code.