Who is the Tawhidi Janata?
A surge in activities by the self-styled Islamic Tawhidi Janata—including storming the Shahbagh police station to secure the release of an accused harasser—has raised questions about their identity and organization.
Incidents and Presence
The group has been notably active at the book fair, frequently forming mobs and organizing protests 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, who was arrested for harassing a student.
Figures Identified
1. Sher Muhammad
- Arrested by Rab in 2022 for funding the banned militant group Jama’atul Ansar Fil Hindal Sharqiya.
- Seen campaigning after August 5 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 the Facebook page ‘Anti-Shatim Movement’:
- On February 22, 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 the Islamic militant group Ansarullah Bangla Team / Ansar Al Islam.
- Central coordinator of a movement advocating for the release of imprisoned militants.
- Allegedly organized a team post-August 5 to free militants from Kashimpur prison and interrogate officials.
3. Mohammad Tamim
- Present at all major protests.
- Often seen at the forefront of demonstrations.
- Active on the ‘Council Against Injustice’ Facebook page, created on August 17, 2024.
4. Arman Uddin
- Identified as a key participant in the Shahbagh incident, providing live updates.
- Locked his Facebook profile after old posts surfaced, showing support for Chhatra League leaders.
- Led the attack on the Sabyasachi Publishing stall at the book fair on February 10.
Connections and Online Presence
The trio—Sher Muhammad, Ataur Rahman Bikrompuri, and Tamim—are highly active on social media, frequently engaging in coordinated online campaigns through Facebook pages such as:
- ‘Council Against Injustice’
- ‘Anti-Shatim Movement’
While Tawhidi Janata may appear to be a loosely connected group, evidence suggests a more structured organization with coordinated leadership and a history of extremist activity. Their involvement in violent protests and online incitement raises concerns about potential long-term threats.
