NYT paints troubling, one-sided view of Bangladesh

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Dhaka, April 1 - Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Tuesday said Bangladesh’s history of resilience, its commitment to democracy, and its focus on women’s empowerment are all testaments to the fact that the country will continue to move forward, despite the challenges it faces.

"Rather than focusing on a few negative examples, we should recognize the broader picture of progress, resilience, and determination that defines Bangladesh today," he said.

Alam noted that The New York Times article titled "As Bangladesh Reinvents Itself, Islamist Hard-Liners See an Opening" paints a troubling and one-sided view of Bangladesh, suggesting that the country is on the brink of being overtaken by religious extremism.

In a post from his verified Facebook account, the press secretary said this portrayal not only oversimplifies the political and social dynamics of the country but also risks unfairly smearing an entire nation of 180 million people.

"It is crucial to acknowledge the progress Bangladesh has made over the last year and the complexity of the situation, rather than relying on selective, incendiary examples that paint an inaccurate picture," Alam said.

Furthermore, he said, the notion that the rise of extremism is an inevitable outcome of Bangladesh's political transition is far too deterministic.

The country's democratic spirit and vibrant civil society are powerful forces that continue to hold back the full rise of extremist ideologies, Alam said.

While challenges remain, he said, the long-term direction of Bangladesh will not be shaped solely by the actions of extremists.

"The people of Bangladesh, particularly its youth and women, are determined to continue the fight for a just, democratic, and inclusive society," said Alam.

He said Bangladesh is not alone in facing the challenge of religious extremism; this is a global issue that many countries confront in different forms.

However, he said, Bangladesh has continuously worked to address these challenges through law enforcement, social reforms, and counterterrorism initiatives.

The country’s commitment to protecting its diverse population—whether Muslim, Hindu, Christian, or any other community—remains steadfast, said the press secretary.

"While there will always be hardliners who spew hatred at rallies and on social media, it is our responsibility to deny them the oxygen their anger requires," he said. - UNB