Is Bangladesh Silencing Durga Puja Celebrations with a ‘Jizya’ Tax and Namaaz Restrictions?

Durga Puja Celebrations Face Challenges in Bangladesh

The celebration of Durga Puja in Bangladesh has encountered significant obstacles, with the interim government and various Muslim organizations denying permissions in several locations.

Interim Government’s Restrictions

Organizing committees have reportedly been instructed to maintain silence during the Namaaz prayers and are required to pay ₹5 lakh each as a form of ‘jizya’, a tax historically levied on non-Muslims. These restrictions follow multiple reports of vandalism and looting of idols throughout the country.

Threats to Puja Committees

According to a report by the Daily Star in late September, several Durga Puja committees have received threat letters demanding a payment of ৳5,00,000 to hold their celebrations. Additionally, numerous Hindu temples in the Dakop area of Khulna have lodged police complaints after receiving similar threats.

Sound Restrictions During Prayers

The Dhaka Tribune reported last month that the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has advised Puja committees to keep their musical instruments and sound systems turned off during Azaan and Namaaz. This directive was issued by Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury following a law and order meeting.

Increased Violence Against Minorities

Bangladesh has experienced a rise in violence against minority groups since the Sheikh Hasina government fell in early August. The new administration claims that these attacks are politically motivated. Officials have pointed to inadequate security measures and expressed concerns about restricting the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations. However, senior members of the government have reassured the public that worshippers will still have the opportunity to celebrate the festival.

Government’s Stance on Durga Puja

In a recent interaction with ANI, Mohammed Touhid Hossain, Bangladesh’s foreign affairs advisor, remarked, “This is quite strange. There could be a fringe that may not like Durga Puja. Durga Puja has been performed in this country for ages, and there have been no instances when Durga Puja was not held. Certainly, the worshippers who want to do so have the opportunity to do so. There should be no doubt about this.”

What Is Jizya?

Jizya is a historical tax imposed on non-Muslims living under Islamic rule, derived from Islamic law and mentioned in the Quran. Traditionally, it was collected in exchange for protection and exemption from military service. While jizya was practiced in various Islamic empires, its contemporary application is rare and often viewed as discriminatory. Calls for its reinstatement can lead to significant political and social tensions, especially regarding the treatment of minority communities.