Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today asserted that no direct, indirect, visible, or invisible conspiracy to divide the nation on the basis of religion, ethnicity, locality, language, race, or gender will be allowed to succeed.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister emphasized that any attempt to exploit followers of any religion for political or personal interests, or to seize state machinery through religious means, is an act against the almighty, humanity, and the fundamental teachings of religion. These remarks were made during his address as the chief guest at the biennial conference of the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, Barishal district chapter, held at the Barishal District Shilpakala Academy auditorium.
Swapon drew a clear distinction between politics and religion, stating that philosophy, thought, and ideology in politics are not religious matters. He explained that while religious philosophy revolves around the Almighty Creator, political thought is centered on public welfare and social interests. He further noted that no political symbol or electoral mark is divinely ordained, and no political party or leader is a divine being, emphasizing that people will support them as long as they serve the public welfare.
Highlighting the importance of communal harmony in society, the minister called for raising public awareness regarding the true practice of religion. He stressed that religious practice becomes meaningful only when believers can identify those who exploit religion for personal gain. Swapon urged pious individuals to raise their voices and identify those who attempt to transform religious sentiments into a communal divide.
Swapon also reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring equal rights for all citizens, stating that political figures who believe in equal rights see Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as their strongest representative. He reminded attendees of the historical lessons that remain unforgotten, warning that history may repeat itself if promises made to the people are not fulfilled. Swapon reiterated Rahman's stance that religion belongs to individuals, but the state belongs to everyone.
The event was chaired by Barishal District Puja Udjapan Parishad President Manik Mukharjee Kudu, with Barishal City Corporation Administrator Bilkis Akter Jahan Shirin and Zila Parishad Administrator Akon Kuddusur Rahman attending as special guests. Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad Central General Secretary and journalist Santosh Sharma served as the main discussant at the function.
The conference began with the chief guest hoisting the national flag alongside the national anthem, followed by the inauguration of the biennial conference with the release of balloons and pigeons. Additionally, five valiant freedom fighters were honored at the start of the discussion.