Bandarban:Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Sa Ching Prue has highlighted Durga Puja as a festival that transcends religious and social boundaries, serving as a unique bridge that fosters longstanding social bonds, mutual respect, and communal harmony.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks during the inauguration ceremony of the Durga Puja festival and Sharad Mela held at Rajar Math (King's Ground) in Bandarban. He emphasized that the festival symbolizes the triumph of truth and beauty over injustice and evil.
The minister also stressed the importance of maintaining security and order at Puja mandaps, reaffirming the government's commitment to ensuring the safety, fundamental rights, and well-being of every community in the country. He noted that district and local administrations have implemented comprehensive security measures to allow people from all religious and social backgrounds to celebrate peacefully.
Sa Ching Prue urged law enforcement agencies, Puja celebration committees, and local residents to remain vigilant to prevent any untoward incidents during the festivities. The Durga Puja festival is being celebrated at 33 Puja mandaps across the seven upazilas of Bandarban district and will conclude on October 21 with the immersion of the idols.
Following the ceremony, the minister distributed educational scholarships to meritorious students from the area. The event was also attended by Brigadier General Mohammad Ariful Islam, Bandarban Deputy Commissioner Naznin Sultana, and Superintendent of Police Md Wahabul Islam Khandaker.