Rangpur:Minister for Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Prof Dr AZM Zahid Hossain has raised concerns about individuals and groups using social media to spread conspiracies and incite unrest in Bangladesh. He emphasized the importance of justice for those who have committed crimes, including murder and enforced disappearances.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Zahid made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the ‘Shubho Kathina Civara Danotsab (Offering of Robes to Monks) and Indigenous Buddhist Religious Grand Assembly, 2026’ held at the Benubon Buddhist Monastery in Mithapukur upazila of Rangpur. The event was organized by the patrons of Mithapukur Benuban Buddhist Vihara, the central Vihara of North Bengal.
Sanghanayaka and Adhyaksha for North Bengal at Chhatnipara Ananda Buddhist Vihara in Dinajpur, Bhodonto Somanando Mohathero, presided over the programme, while the Principal of Mithapukur Benubon Buddhist Vihara, Bhodonto Shuvomitra Bhikkhu, formally inaugurated it. Kanchon Singh (Oraon), Director of the Rajshahi Divisional Minority Ethnic Groups Cultural Academy, attended as the guest of honor.
Dr Zahid highlighted Bangladesh's history of communal harmony and the importance of maintaining peace among people of different religions and beliefs. He warned that any attempts to disrupt this peace through brute force would face consequences.
He also addressed economic challenges, noting that global instability has led to rising commodity prices. However, he praised the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for ensuring that citizens still have access to basic necessities. Dr Zahid referred to past economic mismanagement and efforts to rebuild the nation under the current leadership.
Other notable attendees included Chairman of the Rangpur Development Authority Md Samsuzzaman Samu, Administrator of the Rangpur Zila Parishad Md Saiful Islam, Deputy Commissioner Israt Jahan, and several BNP leaders and indigenous community leaders.