Dhaka: Islamic scholars today emphasized the importance of ensuring that every affluent Muslim fulfills their obligation of giving Zakat to protect their wealth. “If giving Zakat is not ensured properly, their wealth will be destroyed,” they stated during a seminar titled ‘The Role of Zakat in Poverty Alleviation for the Purpose of Collecting Zakat Fund,’ organized by the Dhaka Divisional Office at the meeting room of the Islamic Foundation’s head office in Agargaon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seminar was presided over by Islamic Foundation (IF) Director General Salam Khan. Key speakers included Islamic Foundation Board Governor and Befaqul Madarisil Arabia Bangladesh Secretary General Shaikhul Hadith Allama Mahfuzul Haque. Other notable attendees were Shaikhul Hadith Allama Neyamatullah Al-Faridi from Shibchar Jame’atus Sunnah Madrasah in Madaripur, Joint Secretary of the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner’s Office Md Abdur Rahim, and several IF directors and deputy directors.
Salam Khan highlighted that, in accordance with the command of Almighty Allah, Zakat must be given to ensure an equitable distribution of wealth between the rich and the poor. He suggested that the use of technology could be further enhanced to facilitate the equitable distribution of Zakat in the country. “Our scholars (alem-ulema) must convince everyone that Zakat is an obligatory act of worship,” he added.
Mahfuzul Haque reiterated the need for improving the processes involved in collecting and distributing Zakat, stating, “We have a lot more to do to make the collection and distribution of Zakat smooth. We are determined to ensure Zakat.”
Neyamatullah Al-Faridi expressed optimism that if Zakat is paid correctly, poverty could be eradicated in Bangladesh. He hoped that within two years, there would be no individuals in the country relying on Zakat if it is distributed properly.