Democracy and religion
Saturday, 26 February 2011
If we are talking about blending religion and politics, democracy is not an antidote. Our next-door neighbour, the largest democracy in the world, allowed a religio-political party to be in power. Many political scientist argue that democracy should not be used to silence those who support religion to be a part of politics. Democracy, by definition should be inclusive or giving rights to all to be heard, represented and contest elections. Any parochialism in the matter deprives a political system of its claimed democratic dispensation.
It is necessary to explore options, discuss and debate on these issues before superimposing something. Democracy allows us to have that debate and to have its welcome suggestions incorporated in the policy-making.
Shibli Sadiq
Babar Road,
Mohammadpur, Dhaka.