The government is committed to protecting religious freedom and maintaining harmony among all citizens, Fisheries and Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid said on Thursday.
He made the remarks while addressing the traditional Rath Yatra festival of the Hindu community in Cumilla as the chief guest.
The minister said Bangladesh has a long history of communal harmony, with people of different faiths living together peacefully for centuries.
“Cumilla’s history is also a history of peaceful coexistence among Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians,” he said.
He said some vested groups have attempted to create communal divisions at different times for their own interests, but they have failed due to the awareness of people.
“We believe no one will succeed in harming communal harmony in the future. Our ancestors lived together with mutual respect and love, and we must build a peaceful and harmonious Bangladesh for future generations,” he said.
The minister said no religion supports injustice and that all faiths teach people about justice, humanity and peace.
“Religion should not be used as a tool for division. Rather, it should inspire us to uphold human values and strengthen the bonds of harmony,” he said.
Praising the participation of leaders and followers of the Hindu community at the event, Amin Ur Rashid said the large gathering reflected stronger bonds of brotherhood and mutual respect.
He urged people to preserve harmony, tolerance and respect for one another to build a non-communal, peaceful and prosperous Bangladesh.
Cumilla City Corporation Administrator Md Yusuf Molla Tipu, Cumilla Development Authority Chairman Udbatul Bari Abu, Deputy Commissioner Rozi Akter, Police Superintendent Md Anisuzzaman and Cumilla Adarsha Upazila Nirbahi Officer Fatema Tuz Johora were present at the event.
