Dhaka, 25 January 2024,
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has publicly backed Asif Mahtab, the BRAC University adjunct philosophy teacher whose contract was not renewed after he protested a Class VII textbook chapter, and demanded his immediate reinstatement. In a statement dated January 23, 2024, Acting Ameer Prof Mujibur Rahman praised Mahtab as an “idealistic teacher” and framed his actions as conscience-driven opposition to the national curriculum.
In the same statement, Jamaat again made its anti-LGBTQ position explicit, asserting that Mahtab had “strongly criticized homosexuality” and lauding that stance as reflective of public sentiment. The statement described the government’s curriculum as “immoral,” alleged that “92%” of Bangladeshis reject it, and urged teachers, religious scholars, students, guardians, and the public to show solidarity with Mahtab while resisting the education policy. It also called on BRAC University to withdraw its decision and reinstate him.
Media coverage echoed the thrust of Jamaat’s message, noting the party’s praise for Mahtab, its call for reinstatement, and its characterization of the curriculum as contrary to national values. Reports also highlighted that Jamaat circulated the statement on its verified social media channels.
Source:
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami — “BRAC University dismisses a teacher for his criticism of new curriculum of the government; Acting Ameer protests” (Jan 23, 2024). Jamaat-e-Islami
Dhaka Tribune — “Jamaat praises dismissed BracU teacher Asif, criticizes govt education policy” (Jan 24, 2024). Dhaka Tribune
