Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today sought cooperation from religious leaders in gathering accurate information regarding any attacks on minorities in the country. “I have asked you to join (today’s dialogue) to know how information could be gleaned in a safer way so that the information providers do not fall in trouble,” he stated during his opening remarks at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, where he addressed faith leaders from across Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, upon his return to Dhaka on August 8 following the July revolution, Prof Yunus emphasized the unity among Bangladeshis, despite differences in opinion. He described the nation as a family, asserting, “We are not enemies to one another. We all are Bangladeshis.” Prof Yunus expressed his distress over issues of minority repression that emerged following the formation of the interim government. He highlighted his visit to Dhakeswari Temple during Durga Puja, noting how the event united people from all wa
lks of life, transforming it into a national festival.
Prof Yunus acknowledged the resurgence of concerns over minority attacks, which have been reported by foreign media, and pointed out discrepancies between these reports and the actual situation. “We want to know the accurate information and want to establish the process of getting the information,” he remarked, underscoring the state’s duty to ensure equal rights for all citizens, as enshrined in the constitution.
He urged that immediate measures be taken to gather information and bring perpetrators to justice in the event of any minority attacks. Prof Yunus emphasized the importance of creating a preventive environment and providing immediate remedies for victims. “I think most of the people of Bangladesh agree on what I have said,” he concluded. Religious leaders from the Muslim, Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist communities participated in the dialogue, reflecting a collective commitment to addressing these crucial issues.