Appeal Hearing on Jamaat Registration Issue Set for January 21
In a significant development, the appellate bench of the High Court has concluded the second day of hearings on the appeal against the High Court’s ruling declaring the registration of Jamaat-e-Islami invalid after its revival. The Chief Justice, along with four other judges, led the proceedings on Tuesday, with the next hearing scheduled for January 21.
Legal Representatives Present During the Hearing
Representing Jamaat, lawyers Ehsan A Siddique and Shishir Monir were present at the hearing. On the opposing side, lawyer Touhidul Islam made his arguments. The appeal hearing began on December 3, with the case being dismissed on November 19, 2023, due to the absence of the legal representatives.
Challenges to Jamaat’s Registration
The registration of Jamaat-e-Islami was challenged by 25 individuals, including the former Secretary-General of the Bangladesh Tarikat Federation, Rezaul Haque Chandpuri, and the former Secretary-General of the Jaker Party, Munshi Abdul Latif, among others. They contested the validity of Jamaat’s registration, leading to several modifications in the party’s structure and nomenclature.
Expert Commentary and Legal Proceedings
During the hearing, Advocate Ehsan Abdullah Siddique and Shishir Monir represented the applicants. Advocate Jehadul Rahman represented Jamaat-e-Islami. Rahman mentioned a personal inconvenience faced by senior lawyer Ehsan Mohammad Ali, and an absent advocate, Joy Nul Amin, which led to a dismissal by default.
Expert quote: “Our senior lawyer faced personal difficulties, and the absence of another advocate led to a six-week delay. Since our legal team was not present, the court dismissed it for default,” said Advocate Jehadul Rahman.
The court provided an opportunity for restoration (rehearing) of the application, highlighting the judicial discretion in such matters.
As the political landscape in Bangladesh continues to evolve, with student protests against the quota system and allegations of government violence, the fate of Jamaat-e-Islami remains uncertain. The party’s appeal against its ban was declared void after the fall of the Awami League government, further complicating its legal status.
The legal saga surrounding Jamaat’s registration highlights the intricate legal battles and political tensions in Bangladesh, underscoring the delicate balance between law and politics in the country’s judicial system. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
Total time: 1346 hours, January 14, 2025.
