Jamaat-e-Islami has evolved since 1971: Secretary General Porwar

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar stated on Friday that the party’s modern identity should not be confused with its role during the 1871 conflict, noting that significant reforms have been made to its governing principles.

Speaking at a May Day rally hosted by the Cumilla city unit of the Bangladesh Sramik Kalyan Federation, Porwar explained that the party has revised its constitution multiple times to reflect contemporary realities. He pointed out that the preamble of the current party charter now explicitly acknowledges and respects the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters during the Liberation War.

The senior leader argued that despite these formal changes, certain circles continue to revive decades-old controversies. He characterized these persistent debates not as genuine patriotism, but as a deliberate attempt by "foreign interests" to create internal divisions within Bangladesh.

"Continuing this debate does not reflect the spirit of independence," Porwar told the gathering at the Cumilla Town Hall Ground. "It is part of a conspiracy to keep the nation divided."

He emphasized that resolving these historical disputes quickly is vital for national stability. Porwar called for a new era of national unity, which he described as essential for securing a prosperous future for the country’s younger generations.

The workers' rally was led by Prof. Md Rafiqul Islam, president of the Federation’s local unit. Other notable attendees included Jamaat’s Cumilla city unit head Kazi Din Mohammad and Sramik Kalyan Federation Central Vice President Md Mojibur Rahman Bhuiyan.