BREAKING

Tawhidi Janata: From Protests to Extremism – What’s Behind the Surge?

Who is the Tawhidi Janata?

Amid a sudden surge in activities by the self-styled Islamic Tawhidi Janata—including storming the Shahbagh police station to secure the release of an accused harasser—questions arise about their identity and organization.

Incidents and Presence

  • The group has been active at the book fair, frequently forming mobs.
  • Protests occurred at multiple locations, including:
    • Prothom Alo Office
    • The Daily Star Office
    • Shahbagh Police Station
    • Rab-2 headquarters
  • The most recent incident involved storming Shahbagh police station to demand the release of Mostofa Asif, arrested for harassing a student.

Main Figures Identified

1. Sher Muhammad

  • Arrested by Rab in 2022 for funding banned Islamic militant group Jama’atul Ansar Fil Hindal Sharqiya.
  • Seen campaigning after 5 August with the black Al-Qaeda flag.
  • Prominently displays Titumir’s photo on his Facebook profile.
  • Connected with Ataur Rahman Bikrompuri through external programs.

2. Ataur Rahman Bikrompuri

  • Declared Sher Muhammad as Ameer during the Shahbagh incident.
  • Known for inflammatory sermons on Facebook.
  • Runs a Facebook page ‘Anti-Shatim Movement’:
    • On 22 February, posted a call to kill anyone labeled ‘Shatim-e-Rasul’.
    • Regularly condemns Muslims who practice democracy as ‘kafirs’.
    • Incites violence against atheists and secular activists.
  • Arrested in 2021 as a member of Islamic militant Ansarullah Bangla Team / Ansar Al Islam.
  • Central coordinator of a movement advocating for the release of imprisoned militants.
  • Allegedly organized a team post-5 August to free militants from Kashimpur prison and interrogate officials.

3. Mohammad Tamim

  • Present in all the aforementioned protests.
  • Often seen at the forefront of demonstrations.
  • Active on the ‘Council Against Injustice’ Facebook page, created on 17 August 2024.

4. Arman Uddin

  • Identified as a key participant in the Shahbagh incident, providing updates.
  • Locked his Facebook profile after old posts surfaced, showing support for Chhatra League leaders.
  • Led the attack on Sabyasachi Publishing stall at the book fair on 10 February.

Connections and Online Presence

  • The trio—Sher Muhammad, Ataur Rahman Bikrompuri, and Tamim—are active on social media.
  • Connected through Facebook pages:
    • ‘Council Against Injustice’
    • ‘Anti-Shatim Movement’
  • Regularly engage in coordinated online campaigns.

While Tawhidi Janata may appear to be a connected group, evidence suggests a more organized structure with coordinated leadership and a history of extremist activity. Their involvement in recent violent protests and online incitements raises concerns about their long-term potential threats.

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