Dhaka: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has extended heartfelt greetings to the Hindu community on the occasion of Sharadiya Durgotsab (Durga Puja), the largest religious festival of the Bangalee Hindu community, which begins on September 28. Dr. Rahman conveyed his wishes on behalf of himself and the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami in a statement released by the party’s central publicity division.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Jamaat Ameer urged the administration and law enforcement agencies to ensure adequate security measures so the Hindu community can celebrate the Sharadiya Durga Puja peacefully and without any hindrance. He also called upon the workers of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and all peace-loving citizens of the country to provide support for the smooth celebration of the religious festival.
Dr. Rahman emphasized that Bangladesh is globally recognized as a role model for communal harmony. He highlighted that people from all communities, including Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian, have been observing their respective religions and ceremonies in a peaceful environment for generations. He described this precedent of peaceful coexistence as an extraordinary phenomenon in global history.
He noted that various international organizations and influential nations have consistently praised this unique environment of communal harmony in the Muslim-majority country. They have labeled Bangladesh as a ‘Moderate Muslim Country’ and a ‘role model’ for communal harmony.
Dr. Rahman shared that a few years ago, former Australian High Commissioner Greg Wilcock was impressed by the cooperation between faiths when Puja and Eid coincided, stating that Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony. He also quoted European Union delegation Head William Hanna, who remarked that a shining example of communal harmony like Bangladesh is rare globally. Hanna historically called Bangladesh an advanced model of communal harmony where people of all faiths coexist peacefully, maintaining harmony and enjoying freedom to practice their respective religions.
In conclusion, Dr. Rahman stated that the collective participation in Bangladesh’s religious festivals turns them into a meeting ground for people from all walks of life, enhancing the nation’s global standing. He expressed hope that Sharadiya Durgotsab would further strengthen the bonds of tolerance and harmony in the national life, wishing for happiness, peace, and prosperity for the Hindu community and all ethnic groups in Bangladesh. He stressed the importance of preserving this tradition of communal harmony, noting that mutual love, tolerance, and respect are fundamental aspects of the nation’s culture.