DHAKA: Abdul Latif Siddique, who has crated a controversy for his recent ‘irresponsible’ remarks that demeaned Hajj and Tablig Jamaat, has said that he is unyielding about his remarks.

Moreover, he is unwilling to resign from the cabinet, the minister of post, telecommunications and information technology, said in an interview with BBC Bangla from Mexico on Tuesday.

"I opined as per my beliefs, someone could hurt and I am also disrespected by some slanderous remarks recently," he described. “Resigning from the post due to pressure is out of question.”

The minister said that he expressed his opinion as an independent and modern human being. But, he would only withdraw the statement if Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina orders him.

Earlier, Latif Siddique demeaned Hajj in his speech on Sunday while addressing a programme organised by the Tangail Samity at a New York hotel.

He opined that Hajj is a waste of manpower. Those who perform hajj do not have any productivity. They deduct from the economy, spend a lot of money abroad.

Pointing to Tablig Jamaat, he said Tablig Jamaat create huge traffic congestion in the name of Ijtima.

His derogatory comments sparked controversy in home and abroad.

According to media reports, the government on Tuesday has already taken decision to remove him from the cabinet.

Moreover, the ruling Awami League policy makers also decided to take out from party post.

BDST: 1039 HRS, OCT 01, 2014

** Latif Siddique may lose party post