Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has emphasized that every Bangladeshi citizen deserves equal dignity and rights, regardless of religion, ideology, or financial standing.
Speaking at the Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka today while exchanging greetings with members of the Hindu community on the occasion of Sharadiya Durga Puja, the Chief Adviser said, “We are all members of one family — the people of this country are united as one. Within a family there may be disagreements, but the bond remains indivisible. As a nation, we too must hold on to this unity.”
Earlier, Prof Yunus toured the temple premises and reviewed preparations for the upcoming Puja celebrations.
He stressed that the state has no right to discriminate between citizens on any grounds. “Whatever faith or belief one holds, whether rich or poor, everyone is a citizen first. Our Constitution guarantees equal rights for all. No government has the authority to deny these rights — even in the smallest measure,” he asserted.
Calling for greater public awareness to safeguard rights, Prof Yunus said, “We must keep reminding ourselves and others: I am a citizen of this country, and my constitutional rights must be ensured. If we all raise this demand together, the entire nation will stand united.”
He noted that neglect and frustration over citizen rights had long left people disheartened. “But the new Bangladesh cannot afford hopelessness. Our foremost goal is to establish equality and dignity for all citizens,” he said.
Turning to the issue of religious freedom, the Chief Adviser remarked, “We want to live as citizens who can freely practice their faith. The goal is to build such a welfare-oriented country where people can celebrate religious festivals without needing additional security.”
Prof Yunus also shared his personal feelings about Durga Puja, saying he did not want to miss the festive joy. “As head of government, I must attend the UN General Assembly during Puja days. I thought I might miss the celebrations this year, but I was determined to come earlier and share this happiness with you,” he told the gathering.
Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain, Religious Secretary AKM Aftab Hossain Pramanik, BPUP President Basudeb Dhar, and Mohanagar Sarbojanin Puja Committee President Jayanta Kumar Deb also addressed the program. The event was conducted by Mohanagar Sarbojanin Puja Committee General Secretary Tapash Saha.
Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Principal Coordinator for SDG Affairs Lamiya Murshed were also present.
