Sadek Mahmud is an international human rights activist, blogger, writer, and the founder of the Humanists Society of Bangladesh.
Born in: Kishoreganj, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Currently residing in: Kolkata, India
My Core Beliefs and Statements:-
On Religion and Morality:
I am a person free from religious fundamentalism and communal bias. I strongly believe in secularism—not as an anti-religious stance, but as a foundation for a society where all individuals are free to follow or not follow any religion.
To me, secularism does not mean the absence of religion, nor does it mean obstructing anyone’s right to practice their faith. Rather, I support the freedom to observe any religion or ideology, however unusual or unconventional, in a peaceful society.
I am not anti-religion. I believe that the existence of over 4,000 diverse religions adds to the richness and beauty of our world. Different cultures and rituals are expressions of human diversity. I appreciate and respect these traditions when they are practiced peacefully.
However, religion should never be tied to the fundamental structure of the state. Based on the spirit of Bangladesh’s Liberation War and its Constitution, the state belongs to all its citizens, regardless of faith. The state must ensure freedom of religion and protection for all, but it must remain separate from religious doctrine.
Religion should remain within the personal and social domains of individuals. Once religion influences state policies, it risks creating injustice and disharmony among citizens of different beliefs. Religion should be personal, and the state should belong to all.
Everyone should have the full right to practice—or not practice—any religion without fear. No one should be harmed, threatened, or killed over their religious choices. The state has a duty to punish those who commit such violence.
When religion merges with state principles, it hinders progress. Societies stagnate in art, culture, literature, economy, and freedom. Religious terrorism and ideological extremism flourish, leading to instability. We see this in countries like Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, Syria, Libya, and Palestine, with Pakistan and Iran also showing similar signs.
I differentiate between religion and bigotry. True religion, to me, is peaceful devotion. Bigotry, on the other hand, includes violence in the name of religion, animal cruelty during festivals, pseudoscientific practices like drinking urine for healing, and systemic oppression under the guise of faith.
I oppose all forms of religious orthodoxy and superstition. If a belief system causes harm to people, humanity, or societal progress, I will continue to speak out against it.
I believe in freedom of thought and expression. True freedom of speech includes the right to hear things we may not like. However, free speech must be truthful, backed by evidence, logic, and sincerity. Malicious falsehoods, personal attacks, or hate propaganda do not qualify as free speech, and I strongly oppose them.
Belief in the Creator:
Just as a molecule or bacteria is minuscule in the human body, I consider my existence on Earth equally insignificant in the vast universe. I believe the chances of fully understanding the Creator of this cosmos are close to zero. Faith, in this context, is the only currency of belief.
I believe in natural creation, the multidimensional theory of existence, and in a Creator or cosmic entity behind it all. My body is a convergence of millions of living entities. Just as countless cells form a life, I believe in the mystery and mathematics of the universe’s design. Though faith here may lack definitive proof, it remains a valid form of belief for me. Hence, I consider myself a believer in a Creator.
On Women’s Rights and Freedom:
I strongly support women’s freedom and rights. However, I do not define women’s freedom as public nudity, open sexual acts, violence against others, or abandoning children.
True women’s freedom lies in equal opportunities—in education, employment, entrepreneurship, and the right to live without barriers. I believe in empowering women through knowledge, ability, and independence.
I reject the notion of judging women based on their physical structure. I advocate evaluating individuals based on their intellect, creativity, conscience, and humanity—not their appearance.
Nature and the Soul:
I am a nature and animal lover. I deeply care for animals, especially dogs and cats, who I find more loyal and genuine than many humans. If given a choice by the Creator, I would choose to be reborn as a dog—a symbol of loyalty, honesty, and silent service.
I oppose mass animal slaughter in the name of festivals or for religious appeasement. However, I acknowledge the natural food chain and support the ethical consumption of animals for survival. Life feeds on life; this is the reality of nature.
Respect and Disrespect:
I do not offer respect based on age, lineage, appearance, or degrees. I respect people for their intellect, wisdom, and critical thinking.
I respect a tea stall owner, a farmer, a day laborer, a rickshaw puller, or a garment worker more than a so-called “certified educated” hypocrite. These people contribute more to society than many glorified elites.
Conclusion
I consider myself a logical human being. My moral compass is based on honesty, conscience, reason, intelligence, theory, and verifiable facts. I stand for individual freedoms, human dignity, and justice. My moral standards revolve around a rational and fair understanding of life and society.