Senior journalist Anis Alamgir has remarked that if the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami continues to grow stronger, it will eventually make it clearer who the so-called “hidden actors” in politics truly are. According to him, before labelling others as “concealed” or “infiltrators”, political parties—particularly the Bangladesh Nationalist Party—should first ensure transparency within their own organisational structures.
He made these observations in a post on his verified social media account on Wednesday, reflecting on recent political tensions involving student wings of rival parties. His comments come in the wake of a violent confrontation at Chattogram City College between rival student groups, an incident that reportedly triggered unrest that later spread towards Chattogram University.
Political Allegations and Counterclaims
In his remarks, Alamgir noted that the term “hidden” or “infiltrator” has increasingly become part of political rhetoric. The BNP frequently uses the label against Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, arguing that in previous years, particularly during the period of political dominance by the Awami League, some members of student Islamist groups allegedly operated covertly within rival student organisations.
However, Alamgir questioned whether the BNP and its student wing have truly been able to identify similar elements within their own ranks. He suggested that individuals who were previously unnoticed often emerge publicly during periods of political mobilisation or crisis, particularly around electoral cycles or major organisational shifts.
Organisational Transparency and Internal Reform
He further argued that political reality demonstrates a consistent pattern: when a political force becomes more organised and influential, those associated with it tend to become more visible rather than hidden. In his view, if Jamaat-e-Islami continues to strengthen its position, it may unintentionally reveal who has been operating in the background across different political platforms.
Alamgir emphasised that the real challenge for the BNP is not to continuously accuse others, but to address internal organisational weaknesses. He pointed to the presence of allegedly hidden influence within various professional and affiliated bodies linked to the party, arguing that a lack of internal transparency undermines political credibility.
Key Claims and Interpretations
| Issue Raised |
Statement Summary |
Political Interpretation |
| “Hidden actors” in politics |
Growth of Jamaat may expose them |
Increased visibility of political affiliations |
| Student clashes |
Violence at Chattogram City College |
Reflection of deeper rivalries |
| BNP criticism of Jamaat |
BNP accuses Jamaat of infiltration |
Long-standing political distrust |
| Internal party structure |
Hidden influence within BNP bodies |
Call for organisational reform |
Broader Implication
His remarks highlight the continuing mistrust among major political forces in Bangladesh and underline the complex relationship between student politics and national party structures. The statement also reflects broader concerns about transparency, internal democracy, and accountability within political organisations.
Alamgir concluded that political honesty begins at home, and without internal clarity, accusations against opponents risk losing credibility in the wider political discourse.
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