Religion for individuals, state belongs to all: Tarique Rahman

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said his party firmly believes that religion is a personal matter, but the state belongs to all citizens irrespective of faith.

In a message on the occasion of Sharadiya Durga Puja and Bijoya Dashami, sent to the media on Wednesday (October 1), Tarique Rahman extended greetings to members of the Hindu community.

“I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to all followers of the Hindu faith on the occasion of their biggest religious festival. I wish them happiness, peace and prosperity,” the BNP leader said.

He noted that for centuries, people of different religions in Bangladesh have practiced their faith with enthusiasm, reflecting the nation’s cultural and social traditions. “In autumn, the blooming of kashphool and the arrival of winter carry the message of this festival, which symbolizes the emergence of light from darkness,” he added.

Tarique Rahman urged members of the Hindu community to celebrate the festival with joy and a sense of security across the country, while spreading the message of harmony and fraternity. “BNP believes religion is individual, but the state is for everyone. Religion is personal, but the right to security is universal,” he stressed.

He further said that festivals highlight the friendship, brotherhood and harmony among different faiths and communities. “Our constitution guarantees security for every citizen regardless of political affiliation, faith or belief. Ensuring the safety of all citizens is the responsibility of the state,” he said.

Quoting a Hadith, Tarique Rahman pointed out that the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) strongly warned against injustice towards non-Muslims under state protection, declaring that he himself would stand against such oppressors on the Day of Judgment.

“A fascism-free Bangladesh must ensure that citizens protect one another’s security and dignity. Those who try to destroy society and impose misrule through persecution and vengeance must be resisted,” he said.

Calling on law enforcement agencies to remain alert, the BNP leader said: “No one should be allowed to disrupt communal harmony or create insecurity during the Sharadiya festival, as happened under fascist regimes.”