Secularism vs identity politics: The political struggle of the twenty-first century
BY PROGGA DAS
In the political arena of the I twenty-first cen-tury, a persistent tension is visible between two oppos-ing ideologies. One emphasizes state neutrality and a unified civic identity, the other prioritizes group-based rights and distinct identities. On one side stands the familiar liberal call for secu-larism, and on the other, the rapidly advancing force of identity politics. The clash and interaction between these two currents have become a central feature of contemporary politics in Bangladesh.
From its very birth, Bangladesh gave priority to secularism. In the 1972 Constitution, secularism was enshrined as one of the four fundamental princi-ples of the state. Its purpose was to free society from religious communalism, ensure equal rights for all religions, and keep state policy free from reli-gious influence. This principle strengthened and broadened the appeal of Bengali nationalism. It was not a call for a religionless society; rather, it acted as a safeguard to protect every citizen's freedom to practice their own faith and to prevent the misuse of reli-gion in politics. However, through the course of history, this principle has been revised, amended, and debated many times.
In the present era, these two ideolo-gies have once again become central to public discourse, exerting a significant influence on Bangladesh's political landscape. Questions of religious and cultural identity within society are gaining renewed political strength. The expansion of social media, the influ-ence of global Islamic political move-ments, the rise of aggressive Hindu nationalism in India, and identity-driv-en politics in the West amid migration crises have all contributed to a similar debate within Bangladesh. As a result, people are increasingly expressing their political positions through their religion, culture, clothing, and lifestyle.
While expressing political views in this manner may
seem acceptable, it often esca-lates into serious confrontations where these two ideologies clash either silent-ly or openly-an outcome that is never desirable.
This dynamic has created a form of polarization that divides society into opposing camps. The battlegrounds of this struggle are now diverse. From the
Bangladesh today stands at a critical crossroads where secularism and identity politics collide, shaping the nation's political and social fabric. What began as a constitutional commitment to secularism has evolved into a contested space, challenged by rising religious and cultural identities amplified by global movements, regional nationalism, and social media. This clash has deepened polarization, weakened social cohesion, and created instability that threatens both democracy and development. Yet, within these opposing ideologies lie constructive principles that, if harmonized, could foster tolerance, stability, and sustainable progress.
The future of Bangladesh depends on striking a delicate balance-ensuring secularism does not alienate faith, and identity politics does not erode rights-so that diversity becomes a source of strength rather than division
choice of words in textbooks to the construction of sculptures and even the celebration of cultural festivals like the Bengali New Year, these arenas have become sites of ideological conflict. One side perceives a threat to its reli-gious existence, while the other sees a looming darkness. Consequently, Bangladesh faces multifaceted chal-lenges. The most significant of these challenges is social instability. The ide-ological gap between these positions has grown so wide that groups increas-ingly view each other as enemies. As a result, the internal fabric of the state weakens. Instead of focusing on exter-nal threats, people become entangled in
culture of tolerance are gradually erod-ed. Yet, from their respective positions, both ideologies contain valid principles. If the positive aspects of these two ide-ologies could be harmonized, the nation and its people could advance in moral integrity, transparency, accountability, development, and expanded interna-tional trade.
For any country aspiring to join the ranks of developed nations, stability and global acceptability are essential. Excessive identity-based politics often creates doubts among foreign investors and development partners, as aggres-sive nationalism or religious narrow-ness is not conducive to long-term
internal hostility.
An excessive expansion of identity politics often pushes society toward extremism, posing a threat to state security. Conversely, if secularism is practiced in a way that disregards the emotions and beliefs of the majority, it backfires by strengthening identity-based politics even further. Caught between these extremes are ordinary citizens, whose fundamental rights and
investment. At the same time, in a country like Bangladesh, sustainable development requires moving forward while respecting the religious and cul-tural values of the grassroots popula-tion. Therefore, maintaining a balance between these two ideologies is indis-pensable for progress.
This crisis cannot be resolved solely through street movements or legal measures. It requires a deep psycho-logical transformation. Political parties must first abandon opportunistic atti-tudes and promote rational and realis-tic ideals. The state system must be reshaped anew, integrating the con-structive elements of both ideologies. The aspects that are essential for the nation's welfare and development should be embraced collectively. The state must create a position where identity does not become a wall of divi-sion but an ornament of diversity.
To properly channel this ideological struggle of the twenty-first century, Bangladesh must reconnect with its original non-communal spirit while maintaining religious perspectives and harmonizing them with modern liberal thought. Educational reforms are cru-cial so that the younger generation learns to be tolerant and empathetic toward differing views. They must understand that difference in opinion does not mean enmity, but merely a divergence of paths. Every citizen should remain deeply respectful and devoted to their own religion while also contributing constructively to the gov-ernance of a modern state.
Simultaneously, steps must be taken to ensure that this system stands on a sustainable foundation. The assurance that identity politics will never shrink citizens' rights, and that secularism will never wound anyone's faith, will form the foundation of Bangladesh's future. If this balance can be properly established and maintained, Bangladesh will one day present to the world a new horizon of peace, order, and development.
Progga Das is a Student, Department of Economics Eden Mohila College She can be reached at proggadas2005@gmail.com
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