Bangladesh has been placed on heightened security alert after followers of Islamic preacher Mufti Harun Izhar began replacing the flags of World Cup teams with white Islamic banners in several parts of the country.
The development followed a recent sermon by Izhar, who urged Muslims to take down the flags of countries such as Argentina and Brazil and instead raise white flags bearing the Kalima, the Islamic declaration of faith.
Bangladesh, a Muslim-majority nation with a constitutionally secular system, is known for its strong football culture, with Brazil and Argentina enjoying huge support during every FIFA World Cup. However, the preacher’s appeal has sparked debate after the white Islamic flags appeared in more than a dozen districts.
Police said they are closely monitoring the situation and would step in if the display of the flags threatens public order. Authorities also noted that supporters have staged motorcycle processions carrying the banners while playing religious songs.
Izhar defended the campaign, saying it was meant to discourage excessive displays of support for foreign football teams. He also dismissed claims that the white flags resemble those used by Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities or the black banners associated with the Islamic State group (ISIS), insisting they are different symbols.
The government has also expressed concern, warning that the development could create a negative impression of Bangladesh internationally.
Despite the controversy, many football enthusiasts have rejected the campaign. Brazil supporter Mohammad Moniruzzaman Chisty said football provides people with a welcome escape from life’s daily struggles and remains one of the country’s biggest forms of entertainment.
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