Rangpur:Minister for Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare, Prof Dr AZM Zahid Hossain, has accused a political party, ousted by a mass uprising, of using social media to spread propaganda and incite unrest in Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Zahid made these remarks during the Kathina Chibar Dana and Indigenous Buddhist Religious Grand Assembly, 2026, held at the Benubon Buddhist Monastery in Mithapukur upazila of Rangpur. He emphasized that those responsible for past violence and disappearances must be held accountable.
The event was presided over by Sanghanayaka and principal of Chhatnipara Ananda Buddhist Bihar, Somanando Mohathero, with the principal of Mithapukur Benubon Buddhist Bihar, Shuvomitra Bhikkhu, formally inaugurating the ceremony. Kanchon Singh Oraon, Director of the Rajshahi Divisional Minority Ethnic Groups Cultural Academy under the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, attended as the guest of honour.
Dr Zahid highlighted Bangladesh's long-standing tradition of communal harmony and warned against individuals and groups using social media to incite unrest. He urged that any attempts to disrupt peace would be met with resistance similar to past events. He also stressed the importance of unity across all religions and beliefs to build an inclusive society.
The minister pointed out the impact of global instability on rising commodity prices but affirmed that under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership, the country is progressing well. He noted the continued support for Rahman, akin to the support previously given to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
Other speakers at the event included Chairman of the Rangpur Development Authority Samsuzzaman Samu, Administrator of the Rangpur Zilla Parishad Saiful Islam, Deputy Commissioner Israt Jahan, Acting Member-secretary of the Rangpur District BNP Paritosh Chakraborty, and President of the Mithapukur Upazila BNP Golam Rabbani, as well as indigenous community leaders.