Bangladesh’s exiled author Taslima Nasreen expressed concern over the increasing religious fundamentalism in her homeland, comparing the present situation to when she was forced to leave over three decades ago. She highlighted the growth of such elements in the country, attributing it to the administration’s support of fundamentalists, leading to widespread religious intolerance.
Taslima, known for advocating women’s rights and freedom of thought, emphasized the conflict between free expression and religious fundamentalism. Despite facing exile since 1994 due to her novel “Lajja,” which depicted the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh, she continues to champion secular resistance through her literary works.
Forced to leave Bangladesh after facing death threats and protests, Taslima has lived in exile in Sweden and India, where she promotes secularism and feminism. Acknowledging the support of the Indian government in providing her a platform for free expression, she remains critical of the rise of fundamentalist elements in Bangladesh under successive administrations.
Reflecting on the future of Bangladesh, Taslima called for those supporting the ideals of the 1971 liberation war to come to power in the upcoming general election. She criticized the use of religion for political gains and expressed hope for a progressive leadership that prioritizes the country’s development, freedom of speech, and gender equality.
