Manikganj:Food Minister Afroza Khanam urged members of all religions and communities to collaborate in preserving communal harmony, especially during the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister emphasized the importance of mutual respect, empathy, and cooperation, highlighting Bangladesh's inclusive identity. She made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at a ceremony where Gratuitous Relief (GR) rice was distributed among 125 Durga Puja mandaps in Sadar Upazila.
Afroza Khanam called on elected representatives, political activists, and administration officials to ensure the safety and uninterrupted celebration of the Hindu community's religious festival. She stated that Eid and Puja are festivals for all, emphasizing the need for solidarity and cooperation.
The minister also mentioned various assistance programs, including development support for Hindu temples and cremation grounds, assuring continued aid. Each of the 125 Durga Puja mandaps in Manikganj Sadar Upazila received 600 kilograms of rice under the GR program. Additionally, the municipality granted Tk 20,000 each to four organizations representing the Hindu community.
The event also featured a tree plantation, sapling distribution, and loan disbursement program under the Palli Sabujayan (Rural Greening) initiative of Palli Sanchay Bank, focusing on environmental conservation and socioeconomic development.
The Deputy Commissioner of Manikganj chaired the event, with other officials in attendance. Earlier, the minister addressed a reception for first-year students at Munno International School and College.