Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman has said accepting differing views and criticism is essential in a democratic society.

“It is not necessary to agree with every statement of an individual or a political party in a democratic society. Similarly, rejecting criticism simply because one does not like it is not right,” he said.

The minister made the remarks while speaking as a panelist at the publication ceremony of Barrister Abdur Razzaq’s book Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami: Its History and Politics at a city hotel on Friday.

Asaduzzaman said the book is not merely a literary or research work but reflects Razzaq’s philosophy, thoughts and experience of viewing society.

Referring to Razzaq’s views on the state and society, he said establishing an Islamic system of governance should involve building and running the state based on Islamic values emerging from society, rather than imposing such a system from above.

The minister also discussed Razzaq’s assessment of the 1971 Liberation War and the political context of that period, saying his position on the issue was significant.

He said although Razzaq served as assistant secretary general of Jamaat-e-Islami, his work, thoughts, philosophy and ideals earned him a position beyond his organisational rank.

Asaduzzaman said the book, published by University Press Limited, is particularly important for people involved in politics and should be read by them.

Professor Ali Riaz of Illinois State University, former Jahangirnagar University professor Dilara Choudhury, former US diplomat John Danilovich and The Daily Star Consulting Editor Kamal Ahmed also attended the event as panelists.