JNU Shibir President Plans to Include Non-Muslim Students in Future Activities

Md. Iqbal Hossain Sikder, President of Islami Chhatra Shibir (ICS) at Jagannath University (JNU), shared plans to involve non-Muslim students in upcoming activities during a meeting with campus journalists on November 10, 2024. He emphasized that leadership within ICS is determined by qualities such as devotion to Allah and the Prophet, organizational wisdom, discipline, and selflessness. Hossain stressed that leadership roles should not be demanded, as the organization does not experience internal disputes over positions. He further clarified that ICS follows its own distinct "working method" and is not affiliated with any political group except its own. In response to negative media portrayals, he maintained that ICS operates independently, with ties to other Islamist groups, including Jamaat-e-Islami. Hossain denied accusations of secretive politics, stating that ICS does not engage in covert activities, though it has faced oppression in the past. He also highlighted the organization's dedication to student welfare through the "Conscious Student Welfare Organization." Regarding factionalism, he noted that the President and Secretary share a strong, respectful, and unified relationship.