Bishwa Ijtema to be split into two phases again in 2025

The first phase is set to be held from Jan 31 to Feb 2, followed by the second phase from Feb 7 to 9

The Bishwa Ijtema, one of the world's largest Muslim gatherings, is once again set to be held in two phases in 2025.

The decision was announced after a meeting at the Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday.

The first phase will be held from Jan 31 to Feb 2 on the banks of the Turag River in Tongi, followed by the second phase from Feb 7 to 9.

Representatives from the Tablighi Jamaat faction led by the Indian preacher Mohammad Saad Kandhlawi attended the meeting alongside members of law enforcement.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Home Advisor Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said that only one faction attended the session.

Discussions with the other group led by senior cleric Zubair Ahmed from Dhaka's Kakrail Mosque would be arranged at a later date.

He added that further details about which group will organise the first and second phases would be disclosed in due course.

Since 2019, the disciples of the late Maulana Zubairul Hasan and Saad have been organising Ijtema events separately, with Zubair's group typically conducting the first phase.

“We have always been excluded from the first phase. This time, we will ensure we secure it,” said Mufti Mu'az Bin Nur, representing the Saad faction.

He added that the Zubair group was invited to the meeting but did not attend, signalling their disregard for the current government.

Advisor Jahangir, without naming any specific group, said, “Many of the religious leaders couldn’t attend as they are currently abroad. We will have discussions with them when they return.”