Bangladeshi Islamists protest fatwa ban

Hundreds of Islamists carrying sticks and flags have marched through the streets of the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka, to protest against a court ruling which bans Islamic edicts known as fatwas.

The protestors also demanded a ban on the activities of non-governmental organisations, which they said violate the spirit of Islam.

The High Court ruled in December that all kinds fatwa were illegal.

The decision was welcomed by civil and human rights organisations but angered Islamist groups.

The Association of Development Agencies in Bangladesh says it is planning a rally in Dhaka on Saturday to mobilise public support against fatwas.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service

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