Dhaka:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman emphasized the importance of unity beyond religious identities for nation-building, urging citizens to work together as demonstrated during the Liberation War, the movement to restore democracy, and the 2024 mass uprising.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing members of the Hindu community during visits to Durga Puja mandaps in the Mohakhali and Gulshan-Banani areas of the capital.
Reflecting on the 1971 Liberation War, Tarique Rahman highlighted how people from various faiths fought together for the country's independence, setting aside their religious identities. He noted that Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians all joined hands to liberate the nation.
Discussing the struggles to restore democracy post-independence, he stated that citizens have consistently rallied to defend their voting rights and freedom of expression whenever democracy was at risk, with religious identity never being an obstacle.
The Prime Minister also recalled the 2024 Mass Uprising, where individuals from all backgrounds united, transcending political affiliations and religious identities, to ensure its success.
Tarique Rahman underscored that the primary identity shared by all citizens is their Bangladeshi nationality. He emphasized that everyone has equal rights over the country, and urged people of all religions and professions to collaborate in building the nation.
He further noted Bangladesh's thousand-year history of peaceful coexistence among various faiths and expressed hope that this tradition would continue for another millennium.
During his visits, Tarique Rahman first stopped at the Durga Puja mandap at Mohakhali Rakshakali Temple, where he interacted with the Puja celebration committee and members of the Hindu community. He then proceeded to a Puja mandap in Banani to greet worshippers and visitors. Prime Minister's wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman and Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Shafiqul Islam Milton accompanied him.