Swapon urges non-communal unity
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said citizens of all religious faiths in Bangladesh enjoy equal rights, stressing that the Constitution does not allow any discrimination or division on the basis of religion.
The minister made the remarks while addressing a discussion as the chief guest organised on the occasion of Sri Sri Jagannath Dev’s Ulto Rath Yatra at Dhakeshwari National Temple in the capital on Friday.
“Followers of the Sanatan faith enjoy the same rights as Muslims, Christians and Buddhists in this country. Our Constitution does not divide people based on religion. Those who try to create division in the name of religion or politics are enemies of the nation, religion and humanity,” he said.
Highlighting the historical significance of the Sanatan faith, Swapon said it represents a thousand-year-old heritage, with history bearing testimony to its long-standing continuity.
He said spiritual leaders of all religions have been working throughout human civilisation to guide people towards the Almighty, while true believers respect followers of other faiths regardless of their rituals or paths.
The minister urged people to remain alert against attempts to exploit religious sentiments for narrow political interests or create social divisions.
“Remaining steadfast in one’s own faith while respecting other religions for peaceful coexistence is the true spirit of a non-communal and inclusive society,” he said.
Swapon further said the philosophy of Bangladeshi nationalism, as outlined by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, does not permit discrimination based on religion, caste, language or geographical identity.
Addressing the event, Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Abdus Salam said Bangladesh belongs equally to all communities.
He said people of the Hindu faith made significant contributions during the Liberation War and the country was achieved through collective sacrifice.
“There is no scope for considering anyone a second-class citizen in Bangladesh. Every citizen enjoys equal rights,” Salam said.
Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad President Basudeb Dhar also addressed the programme as special guest.
