Bangladesh, known for its stability and democratic progress, has faced a concerning uptick in Islamist militant attacks since 1999. Despite a decline in incidents since 2016, these groups persist, recruiting and engaging in small-scale attacks with aspirations for more significant violence.

Historical Roots of Extremism

In August 1947, the British Empire relinquished its control over the Indian subcontinent after two centuries of colonial domination. The partition of India created two new nations: Pakistan, with a Muslim majority, and India, with a Hindu majority. The process of separation was fraught with political turmoil and acrimony, as the leaders of the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League failed to agree on a peaceful and equitable settlement. The birth of the two states was marred by unprecedented human suffering and tragedy. 

As the borders were hastily drawn, millions of people found themselves on the wrong side of the religious divide. Muslims in Punjab and Bengal rushed to Pakistan, while Hindus and Sikhs fled to India. The mass migration sparked horrific sectarian violence, claiming the lives of 2 million people and displacing 12 million. Men and children were murdered; Women were subjected to brutal rape and abduction, homes were looted and burned, and villages were razed to the ground. It was one of the most devastating episodes in modern history.

The roots of Islamic extremism in Bangladesh can be traced back to British colonial rule. The British policy of divide and conquer had exploited social, economic, and religious differences between Hindus and Muslims. 

While this policy successfully kept the subcontinent under their hegemony for 200 years; the strain of fighting the “Third Reich” took its toll and the British left in 1947; in their wake they left a subcontinent that was in a state that could only be described in one word: “apocalyptic’. 

The wars, famine, riots, communal violence and mass displacement that followed were unprecedent in the history of South Asia. In the quagmire of this apocalypse, in the carcass of the rotting body that was South Asia, the seeds of extremism took root. For chaos and helplessness make people desperate, and desperate people turn to anyone offering a lifeline. 

Extremists exploit this desperation, for it is easy to lead a desperate man astray than one that Is secure in his surroundings. The partition of the Indian subcontinent caused religiously fueled extremism to truly flourish. The religious riots that began and continued through the tumultuous years of partition created deep sectarian divides that were exploited by terrorist elements; like a parasite feeding on its host and growing stronger.

The aftermath of the 1947 partition of India fueled conflicts, leading to Bangladesh's independence in 1971. Movements like Jamaat-e-Islami and Nezam Islam played roles in the country's development, fueled by petrodollars and the Soviet-Afghan war, giving rise to groups like Harkat-ul Jihad-al Islam (HUJI) and Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).

Waves of Violence

Terrorist violence, claiming over 1,200 lives since the 1980s, escalated drastically from 1999 to 2006, followed by periods of relative calm and resurgence. Since 2013, violent extremism surged, targeting various groups and instilling fear across Bangladesh.

Countrywide Series Bomb Blasts

The shocking events of August 17, 2005, marked a turning point with approximately 460 bombs detonated in 30 minutes across the country. The rise of militant politics ensued, neutralized under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's leadership. The 2004 coordinated grenade attack on an anti-terrorism rally fueled further unrest.

The Holey Artisan Attack

In 2016, radicalized youths, inspired by global extremist movements like ISIS, attacked Holey Artisan Bakery. The incident resulted in 29 casualties, showcasing loose cooperation between different extremist groups.

Aftermath of Cafe Attack

Political polarization and jihadist resurgence became prominent, with groups like JMJB and Ansarul Islam gaining influence. The government's crackdown after the Holey Artisan attack disrupted militant activities, but challenges persisted due to contentious national politics.

Present Scenario

Despite vigilant law enforcement, new militant outfits, like Jamatul Ansar Fil Hindal Sharqiya (JAFHS), emerged. The government's efforts to weaken these groups through raids have been ongoing.

Snatched Away Militants

Incidents of militants being snatched from custody highlight persistent challenges. The failure to apprehend key figures, such as Major Zia, underscores the ongoing threat despite successful operations.

Under Control, but not Eradicated

Law enforcement efforts resulted in arrests, but sleeper cells remain active. The assurance of control by officials contrasts with the still-alarming situation, exemplified by the 13-month-old case of snatched militants.

A Call for Continued Vigilance

While Bangladesh has long been celebrated for its stability and cultural harmony, the persistent rise of Islamist extremism demands sustained efforts. From the 2005 bomb blasts to the Holey Artisan attack in 2016, Bangladesh has confronted waves of militant violence.

Challenges and Government Response

The government's successes in countering specific groups are commendable, yet challenges persist. The contentious national politics further complicates efforts, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies. The crackdown after the Holey Artisan attack disrupted militant activities, but new outfits continue to emerge.

The emergence of outfits like JAFHS indicates the evolving nature of extremism. Ongoing efforts to weaken these groups highlight the dynamic nature of the extremist landscape, requiring adaptive strategies.

Incidents of militants being snatched underscore the persistent threats faced by Bangladesh. The failure to apprehend key figures like Major Zia reveals gaps in the anti-terrorist activities, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance.