Question

Which of the following is the state religion of Bangladesh, as per the Constitution of Bangladesh?

• A. Christianity
• B. Islam
• C. Buddhism
• D. Hinduism

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Islam

The Constitution of Bangladesh and State Religion

The Constitution of Bangladesh, adopted in 1972, declares Islam as the state religion. This provision was incorporated through the Second Amendment Act of 1973.

Key Constitutional Provisions:

• Article 2A: Explicitly states that 'The State religion of the Republic is Islam'.

• Secularism vs. State Religion: While the constitution also upholds the principle of secularism and guarantees equal status and rights to followers of other religions, the designation of Islam as the state religion is a significant aspect of its constitutional framework. This reflects the historical and socio-cultural context of Bangladesh.

• Freedom of Religion: Despite Islam being the state religion, the constitution assures the right of every citizen to profess, practice, and propagate any religion or faith subject to law, public order, and morality. It also mandates the State to maintain religion neutrality and to treat all religions equally.

Historical Context:

• The initial constitution of 1972, framed by the Awami League government, emphasized secularism.

• However, the inclusion of Islam as the state religion occurred later, reflecting shifts in the political landscape.