Bangladesh belongs to people of all religions: Mirza Fakhrul

Civic identity, rather than religious identity, will be the foundation of the state, said BNP Secretary General and Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. He said Bangladesh belongs to people of all religions — Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians. The government remains highly vigilant to ensure that no one creates unrest in society by sowing division along religious lines.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled 'Protection and Security of Minorities' at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh (IDEB) auditorium in the capital on Friday.

Mirza Fakhrul said people of different religions and communities have been living in harmony in Bangladesh for thousands of years. Everyone must remain united to preserve this tradition. He called on all to firmly resist any attempt to create division or communal incitement in the name of religion.

He further said those who deny the spirit of the great Liberation War or try to make people forget it do not truly believe in Bangladesh. A self-interested group is trying to create instability in the country by using religion as a political tool.

The BNP secretary general said despite various political and social challenges ahead, national unity must be maintained. At the same time, the government will remain firm against any attempt to undermine religious harmony.

The programme was inaugurated by Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury. The Prime Minister's Special Assistant Bijan Kanti Sarkar, Mymensingh-8 MP Lutfullahel Majed, and leaders of various political, social and religious organisations were present.