Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman has said that Bangladesh belongs equally to people of all religions and communities, reiterating that every citizen enjoys equal rights regardless of faith, ethnicity or identity.
“There will be no discrimination in this country based on faith, caste or community. We have been living in harmony and will continue to uphold this spirit in the future,” he said while inaugurating the Janmashtami procession at Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka on Saturday.
Navy Chief Admiral Mohammad Nazmul Hassan and Air Force Chief Hasan Mahmood Khan were also present at the occasion.
Describing Bangladesh as a land of communal harmony, Waker-uz-Zaman stated that Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Bengalis, hill people and indigenous communities have coexisted peacefully for centuries.
“On this day, our commitment should be to preserve this harmonious environment and ensure peaceful coexistence. This country belongs to all of us, each citizen has equal rights, and on that foundation, we envision a golden future,” he added.
The army chief also mentioned the armed forces will always stand beside the people. “Along with the navy and air force chiefs, our forces are deployed across the country. We are united and will continue to work with you,” he highlighted.
Wishing for the ideals of Lord Krishna to inspire society, chief or army staff pointed out, “May the teachings of Lord Krishna spread everywhere so that we may continue to live together peacefully and with mutual respect.”
Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan noted Krishna’s teachings inspire courage to stand against injustice and guide people towards truth and righteousness. “This Bangladesh belongs to all of us. Protecting our independence is our sacred responsibility. If we work together, we can establish Bangladesh as a dignified nation on the global stage,” he reiterated.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan called for building a stronger nation through tolerance and mutual respect saying, “Let us strengthen our country with compassion and patience. May Lord Krishna ignite the light of truth and justice in our society.”
The three service chiefs inaugurated the Janmashtami procession by lighting ceremonial lamps. The colourful rally began from Palashi intersection and concluded at Bahadur Shah Park in the capital.