Inserts:

00:03 Report by / Beenish Javed
00:26 Ayesha Akhtar / Jamaat supporter
01:31 Mousumi / Student

Script:

Hundreds of thousands of Bangladeshis have been showing up in Jamaat's political rallies.

The fiery leader, Shafiq ur Rehman, is promising an Islamic welfare state - a model that's a mix of religion and politics.

And his views are resonating with many - including women.

SOT Ayesha Akhtar, Women supporter:
"Jamaat-e-Islami is not merely a religious party; rather, it is an institution and a center of education. From our personal lives to family, social, and state life, Jamaat-e-Islami promotes a practical Islamic way of life in every sphere.  Through this approach, peace can be established in society, corruption can be eliminated, and a justice-based social system can be built." 

Jamaat OPPOSED Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation war. 

Many of its leaders were hanged after they were prosecuted by the government of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The party was also banned in 2013 under Hasina's rule.

And now, years later, the tables have turned. 

The ban has been lifted.

Jamaat has allied with the student party, whose leaders led the uprising that ousted Hasina.

A political shift in favour of Jamaat, a party that has not fielded a single woman candidate, and is making many progressive Bangladeshis deeply uncomfortable.

SOT Mousumi, Student:
"Women make up 52 percent of Bangladesh’s population, yet Jamaat-e-Islami seeks to push them backward and deny them proper recognition. Historically, Bengali women have stood shoulder to shoulder with men—during the Language Movement, mass uprisings, and national struggles. However, when women demand their rights or seek equal participation in employment, Jamaat-e-Islami always tries to sideline these concerns."

Jamaat leaders argue that they do not plan to implement a strict Shariah law and will allow women to work and be an active part of society.

SOT Ahsanul Mahboob, Assistant Secundary General Jamaat-e-Islami:
"Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami is firmly committed to ensuring women’s freedom of movement, dignity, and security. Women are an extremely important part of Bangladeshi society, and we are committed to providing the safest possible environment for them—at home, at work, and in public spaces."

Bangladesh is stepping into untested political territory where ideas about women's roles, culture, and democracy are colliding.

END