Dhaka, Sep 03 (V7N)- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged citizens to identify themselves first and foremost as Bangladeshis, rather than as members of a majority or minority community.
“We are all Bangladeshis, a proud identity,” he said at a greeting exchange program with followers of traditional religions at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka on Thursday morning.
Referring to the country’s recent political upheaval, the Prime Minister said the people had suffered under a “cruel ruler” who had deprived them of their rights. He said thousands of lives were sacrificed before the people brought down what he described as a fascist regime.
He said the country has now entered a new phase of rebuilding, with efforts needed to improve the economy, social conditions and law and order.
Tarique Rahman warned that some people are spreading rumors and attempting to destabilize the country through various means, including social media.
He called on everyone to remain united in protecting religious harmony, tolerance and social cohesion.
“This country belongs to all of us,” the Prime Minister said, stressing that all citizens have equal rights under the law.
He said every citizen has a constitutional right to live according to their own religious beliefs and culture. He added that the government and the BNP believe that “religion belongs to everyone, the state belongs to everyone.”
He also emphasized that every citizen has the right to security regardless of religious identity.
Earlier, at around 10am, Tarique Rahman exchanged greetings with prominent members of the Sanatan community on the occasion of Shuvo Janmashtami.
He also attended a ceremony where honorariums were distributed among priests and service workers. The Prime Minister personally handed allowances to nine priests and service workers, while another 64 recipients across the country also received the allowances.
END/SMA/AJ
