Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim. Star file photo

Senior Awami League MP Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim yesterday told parliament that Hefajat-e-Islam is anti-Islamic, anti-independence, and "they are the enemy of the country".

Hefajat activists must pay for their recent rampage, he said.

"The government should handle them with an iron hand. If necessary, a tribunal should be formed to try them," Selim said while speaking on a point of order.

Those who do not acknowledge Bangladesh have no right to live here, he said.

Madrasas from where Hefajat militants took to the streets, attacked and killed people, and vandalised and burnt properties, must face closure, he added.

He urged Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to be tougher against Hefajat and BNP-Jamaat clique.

"We have tolerated [their activities] due to observance of the birth centenary [of Bangabandhu] and the golden jubilee of the country's independence. Nothing will be tolerated now… This evil force cannot be spared."

On the birth centenary of Bangabandhu and the golden jubilee of independence, the BNP-Jamaat and anti-independence Hefajat engaged in mayhem because they are all part of a conspiracy, he said.

Protesting Selim's comments, BNP MP Harunur Rashid said the BNP was not against Modi's visit and no anti-Modi slogan was uttered by the party.