Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday called for unity and equality among all citizens, emphasizing that no one should be discriminated against based on religion, belief, or economic status. “We are all members of one family—the nation is one unbreakable family,” he said.
Yunus made the remarks while exchanging greetings with members of the Hindu community at Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka ahead of the upcoming Sharadiya Durga Puja. He visited the temple premises earlier in the day to observe the ongoing preparations for the annual celebration.
“In a family, differences in opinion may exist, but the familial bond is sacred and unbreakable,” the Chief Adviser said. “As a nation, we must remain united under that same bond.”
Underscoring the principle of equality, Yunus asserted that every citizen—regardless of religion, ideology, or financial background—is entitled to equal dignity under the Constitution. “Whatever faith one practices, or regardless of wealth, everyone is a citizen first. And citizenship comes with rights that the state must guarantee,” he said.
He also stated firmly that no government has the authority to deny those rights—not even partially. “We must reject all forms of discrimination and remain vocal about our rights. It’s a duty we owe to ourselves and to each other.”
The Chief Adviser urged citizens to actively claim their constitutional rights. “Always remind yourself and others: ‘I am a citizen of this country, and all my rights must be respected.’ If you raise this demand, the entire nation will stand beside you,” he said, adding that the pursuit of rights unites people across all backgrounds.
Reflecting on the current social climate, Yunus said, “We are often insulted, excluded, or humiliated in many ways. Why? Because we’ve become disillusioned when it comes to our rights. That must change. Building a new Bangladesh means ensuring equal rights for every citizen.”
Touching on religious liberty, Yunus affirmed, “We all want to practice our religion freely and peacefully. These freedoms must be guaranteed without exception.”
While commending law enforcement for their dedication to ensuring public safety during festivals, he expressed hope for a future where such measures are no longer needed. “Our aim is to build a welfare state where people can celebrate without requiring extra security,” he noted.
Sharing his personal sentiments, the Chief Adviser said he was determined not to miss the joy of Durga Puja this year, despite an upcoming trip to New York for the United Nations General Assembly.
“I thought I might miss the festivities this year. But I didn’t want to be deprived of the joy. That’s why I made sure to come early and celebrate with you,” he told the gathering.
The event was attended by Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain, Religious Affairs Secretary AKM Aftab Hossain Pramanik, Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad (BPUP) President Basudeb Dhar, and Mohanagar Sarbojanin Puja Committee President Jayanta Kumar Deb.
Tapash Saha, general secretary of the Mohanagar Sarbojanin Puja Committee, moderated the programme. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and SDG Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed were also present.
