Anas Madani

Anas Madani is a Bangladeshi Islamic leader, best known as the son of Shah Ahmad Shafi, the founder of Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, and for his role in the organisation and the Qawmi madrasa network. He served as the publicity secretary of Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, education secretary at Darul Uloom Hathazari, a founding member of Al-Haiatul Ulya Lil-Jamiatil Qawmia Bangladesh and vice president of both Befaqul Madarisil Arabia Bangladesh and Islami Oikya Jote. His role has been controversial, with allegations of misusing his father's authority in later years to gain personal leverage and influence over his father's decision-making. He was widely perceived as a supporter of the Awami League government and a key figure behind the improved ties between Hefazat-e-Islam and the government. These actions were viewed by some as a betrayal of Hefazat's earlier stance, especially in the aftermath of the Shapla Square massacre. His growing influence led to internal tensions, culminating in student protests at Hathazari that resulted in his removal from key positions and a loss of influence. Despite efforts to form a separate faction of Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, his initiative did not receive widespread backing.