The quiet of Siddheshwari took on political significance Monday evening as Tarique Rahman arrived at the residence of Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, widely known as the Charmonai Pir and Amir of Islami Andolan Bangladesh.
The BNP chairman, now Prime Minister-in-waiting, reached the house around 7:15 pm for what party insiders described as a courtesy call, but the symbolism of the visit extended well beyond formality.
Coming just a day after his meetings with Jamaat-e-Islami Amir and the NCP convener, the stop at Bailey Road signalled a continuing effort to engage a broad spectrum of political and religious leadership in the wake of the national election.
Over the past two evenings, Tarique has moved from one residence to another, choosing private drawing rooms over public stages. The sequence of visits suggests a deliberate outreach strategy, as the BNP prepares for its next steps following the polls.
Islami Andolan Bangladesh fielded candidates in 257 constituencies in the 13th national parliamentary elections and secured one seat. While its parliamentary presence remains limited, the party maintains a committed grassroots base and religious following, giving it influence beyond numbers inside the House.
For observers, the visit to the Charmonai Pir carries layered meaning. It reflects recognition of the role religiously oriented parties continue to play in shaping public discourse, and underscores the importance of dialogue across ideological lines.
As the political landscape settles after the election, Tarique’s evening calls are shaping a narrative of consultation and bridge-building. Monday’s stop at Bailey Road added another chapter to that unfolding story.