Madrasa Previously Accused of Militancy Now Faces Fresh Controversy Over ‘Weapons’ Video

Staff Correspondent

A video from Jessore Jamia Islamia Madrasa has sparked widespread debate on social media. The footage shows a masked individual delivering a speech in Arabic, flanked by two others dressed in black and holding what appear to be dummy weapons. Several people can be seen listening to the speech.

The event occurred on December 17 during the madrasa’s annual cultural programme, which included a symbolic display with costumes and props, according to investigations.

In the video, the speaker recited Quranic verses about warfare and jihad, urging listeners to be ready to respond when called to action. The audience chanted slogans, commonly associated with extremist groups in Bangladesh.

Sources revealed that the madrasa, established in 1998 in Rajarhat Bihari Colony, Jessore, has around 500 students studying Islamic theology. The institution’s name surfaced earlier in connection with militant activities.

A senior journalist from Jessore recalled links between the madrasa and the 1999 Udichi bomb blast, mentioning that militant leader Mufti Hannan reportedly used the madrasa as a hideout.

Police said they visited the madrasa after seeing images of students holding props resembling weapons. Officials confirmed the props were made of wood and foam, and no actual weapons were found.

The madrasa principal stated that the event depicted the Palestinian struggle through acting. The education secretary added that the props were purely theatrical and had no malicious intent.

An Islamic scholar from Dhaka, however, criticised the portrayal, citing its potential to create negative perceptions about madrasas and scholars.

Jessore Kotwali police confirmed that the video depicted a performance as part of a student competition. Initially, the officer-in-charge claimed the video was fake but later clarified its authenticity.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s former ICT adviser, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, shared the video, accusing Muhammad Yunus’ government of supporting extremism. Yunus’ administration recently released several militants, including Ansarullah Bangla Team leader Mufti Jasimuddin Rahmani.

After his release, Rahmani reportedly called for preparation for jihad, sparking further concerns.