Although the number of Islamist outfits, which are using the religion only to serve their interest, is very little, they are well-organised, they said.

Bangladesh Sufi Majlis, a forum of spiritual leaders, organised the discussion on the occasion of the 2nd Sufi Conference at the auditorium of the Institute of Engineers in the city, with Prof AK Azad Chowdhury, former vice-chancellor of Dhaka University, as chief guest.

Prof Azad said Islam teaches humanity, it teaches us to protect human beings, not to kill them.

"Islam has to be established through the purification of the soul. Those who want to establish Islam with the sword are choosing the wrong track. We must resist them," he said.

Kazi Mozammel Haq, advisor to the Suji Majlish, said a vested quarter which has been using religion for their own interest are now trying to portray Islam as a religion of violence by undermining its glorious image.

M Anisul Haq Chisti Al Hosainee, president of the Sufi Majlish, said the spiritual leaders preached Islam in this sub-continent, but their mazars are now the target of bomb attacks and some Moulanas (religious leaders) have issued fatwa (religious edict) that offering prayers at their mazars is against the spirit of Islam.

Pirs (religious leaders) from different parts of the country took part in the conference.