Govt believes religion is personal, state belongs to all: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the government believes in the principle that “religion is personal, but the state belongs to all” and is working to ensure equal rights and security for every citizen.

He made the remarks at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka on Thursday (September 3) while exchanging greetings with members of the Hindu community and distributing honorariums among priests and temple caretakers on the occasion of Janmashtami.

Tarique Rahman said every citizen has equal rights and that living according to one’s religious beliefs and cultural practices is a fundamental constitutional right.

He said the government is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in the state or society and aims to build a welfare-oriented state where citizens receive necessary support regardless of political affiliation, religion or identity.

The prime minister also stressed that citizens have responsibilities towards the state and said a welfare state can be built through mutual responsibility, trust and dialogue among the state, government and citizens.

“This country belongs to you, me and all of us. As citizens, we all have equal rights. Religion may be personal, but the right to security belongs to everyone,” he said.

Referring to the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations, Tarique Rahman urged members of the Hindu community to observe their religious festivals peacefully and safely. He also extended greetings to the Hindu community on Janmashtami and advance greetings for Durga Puja.