District Commissioner Warns Against Political Speeches at Religious Gatherings

The District Commissioner (DC) of Chandpur, Md. Nazmul Islam Sarkar, has issued a stern warning that anyone making political speeches under the guise of religious sermons, or waz mahfils, will face immediate arrest and legal action. The announcement was made during a consultation meeting held on Thursday morning at the Hajiganj Upazila Parishad auditorium, where he addressed officials and local stakeholders.

Speaking as the chief guest, DC Sarkar emphasised the zero-tolerance policy of the administration regarding the use of religious platforms for political purposes. “If any political statement is made in the name of a waz mahfil, the individual will be arrested on the spot. No exceptions will be made,” he declared.

He instructed Hajiganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Ibne Al Zayed Hossain to strictly monitor all religious gatherings to ensure compliance. The DC added that the administration has no intention of allowing the district to return to previous instances of unrest or disorder.

DC Sarkar stressed that maintaining a fair and neutral electoral environment is a top priority. “Using religious gatherings for political campaigning constitutes a violation of the electoral code of conduct. We will not allow any opportunity to mislead the public or incite tensions through religious platforms,” he said.

The DC also informed The Daily Star that in the past week, he had received six to seven complaints regarding political speeches disguised as religious sermons. Upon visiting Hajiganj, he encountered similar concerns firsthand, prompting this public warning.

He concluded by affirming that the district administration is committed to enforcing the law rigorously. Any individual involved in using religious events to influence voters or spread misleading information will face strict legal consequences, he cautioned.

Officials at the meeting reiterated the importance of separating religious functions from political activities, particularly in the lead-up to elections. The DC’s warning serves as a clear message to all political actors and organisers that Chandpur’s administration will ensure a peaceful and impartial electoral process, free from manipulation under religious pretexts.

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