Bangladesh's Religious Affairs Advisor, AFM Khalid Hossain, clarified on Saturday that there are no plans to change the country's national anthem. Speaking to the media after visiting the Islamic Foundation in Rajshahi and attending a gathering of dignitaries, Hossain emphasized that the interim government has no intention of sparking controversy.
This statement comes in response to recent comments made by Abdullahil Amaan Azmi, son of former Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ghulam Azam, who called for a change in both the national anthem and Constitution. Azmi questioned the relevance of the current anthem, arguing that it reflects the era of Bengal’s partition rather than the spirit of an independent Bangladesh. He suggested forming a commission to select a new anthem.
In addressing these remarks, Hossain reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to maintaining a friendly relationship with neighboring India. He also referenced reports of attacks on the Bangladeshi cricket team in India, noting that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) would decide on the appropriate response.
Hossain condemned attacks on places of worship, describing them as "heinous" acts that undermine humanity. He assured that those responsible would face prosecution under existing laws. In an effort to prevent such incidents, local citizens and madrasa students will be mobilized to protect temples during the upcoming Durga Puja festival.
Dismissing accusations that madrasa students have been involved in terrorism, Hossain stated that such claims were propaganda by the previous government. He added that attacks on homes of both Hindu and Muslim community members should be viewed equally and condemned regardless of religion.