Religion-based politics on rise in Bangladesh: Report

DHAKA: The influence of religion-based politics is increasing in Bangladesh,

Transparency International Bangladesh

has said.
Misuse of power by certain groups hinders the goal of creating a non-communal, equal, rights-based Bangladesh, while violence undermines gender, religious, cultural, and ethnic diversity, TIB said in a research report.
The Bangladesh chapter of the global body observed that while students played a key role in overthrowing the Sheikh Hasina government, some lack a firm stance and political tolerance despite prioritising reforms.
The report further said that attacks on the media and efforts to shut down media institutions pose a serious threat to press freedom. TIB's executive director Iftekharuzzaman said essential strategies have yet to be developed to address critical responsibilities of state reform and infrastructure development, which are necessary for achieving the objectives of the new political settlement entrusted to the interim government.