The Impressive TimesDhaka, May 9 — In a striking example of the growing radicalization in Bangladesh, extremists felled a 200-year-old banyan tree along the Kumar River in Madaripur, labeling local rituals at its base as “un-Islamic.” Villagers had long believed the tree held mystical powers, often lighting candles and offering prayers there.
Deeming these practices “bid-ah” (religious innovation), the extremists took matters into their own hands and cut down the historic tree.
The act has sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with many locals voicing outrage. While some villagers wished to protest at the site, they reportedly stayed silent out of fear, as reported by The Business Standard BD.
Although Islamists had opposed the rituals for years, government checks had restrained their actions. However, under Chief Advisor Mohammed Yunus’ interim government, radical groups now appear emboldened. Despite formal complaints, no action has yet been taken by the police or civil authorities against those responsible.
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