Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has reiterated that the current government does not intend to engage in politics based on religion or use it for political gain, emphasizing a commitment to equality and security for all citizens regardless of faith.
Speaking at a courtesy exchange meeting with leaders of the Buddhist community held বৃহস্পতিবার morning at the Secretariat, the Prime Minister assured that the government upholds a principle of inclusivity and equal rights.
“Religion belongs to individuals, but the right to security belongs to everyone,”
he said.
“We do not want to use religion for political purposes, and we have never done so in the past.”
Highlighting the government’s vision, he added:
“People of all religions, ethnicities, believers and non-believers will equally enjoy their rights in every sphere—this is the policy of the present government.”
Emphasis on Religious Harmony
The Prime Minister acknowledged the diversity of religions around the world and noted that all faiths promote the welfare of humanity. Referring to Gautama Buddha’s Panchashila principles, he explained their core values, including refraining from violence, theft, misconduct, falsehood, and intoxicants, along with promoting love, non-violence, and compassion for all living beings.
Liberation War and Inclusive National Identity
Connecting the discussion to the spirit of the Liberation War, Rahman stated that Bangladesh was founded on the vision of a safe and inclusive nation for all.
“During the Liberation War, no one asked who followed which religion or whether one was a believer or not,”
he said.
“Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians together sacrificed countless lives to achieve independence. This country belongs to all of us.”
‘Bangladeshi Nationalism’ as Guiding Philosophy
The Prime Minister further underscored “Bangladeshi nationalism” as a core political philosophy of the government, asserting that it ensures coexistence among all communities.
“You should never consider yourselves minorities. The state represents all of us—our identity is that we are Bangladeshis,”
he added.
Discussions and Honours
The meeting included discussions on communal harmony and government initiatives aimed at the socio-economic development of the Buddhist community. At the end of the অনুষ্ঠানে, Buddhist leaders presented the Prime Minister with a commemorative crest and a symbolic image of the Buddha.
Officials Present
Among those present were Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Religious Affairs Minister Shah Mofazzal Hossain Koykobad, Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan, and State Minister Mir Helal Uddin.
Also in attendance were Bijon Kanti Sarkar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on minority affairs, MP Saching Pru Jerry, Madhabi Marma, and noted academic Dr. Sukomal Barua.
