Bangladesh Lifts Ban on Main Islamic Party

Bangladesh's caretaker government has lifted a ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, the country's main Islamic party, citing lack of evidence of terrorist activities. The ban was initially imposed by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government amid violent protests. Jamaat plans to seek restoration of its registration.

Bangladesh's caretaker government has revoked a ban on the country's main Islamic party, Jamaat-e-Islami, along with its affiliated groups. The decision was made after the government found no evidence of their involvement in terrorist activities.

The ban on Jamaat-e-Islami was previously enforced by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's administration under an anti-terrorism law. Hasina attributed the party's activities to stoking violence during student-led protests which escalated into an uprising, culminating in her resignation and flight to India on August 5.

A gazette notification released by the caretaker government confirmed the absence of any specific evidence against Jamaat and its affiliates regarding terrorist activities. Jamaat vehemently denied the allegations and condemned the ban as illegal and unconstitutional. Since a court ruling in 2013, the party has been unable to contest elections, and it now plans to file a petition at the Supreme Court seeking restoration of its political registration.

(With inputs from agencies.)