Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Local Government Minister and Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has called upon the nation to stand united against any attempts to divide the country using religion for political gains.
He made these remarks as the chief guest during an exchange-of-views meeting with leaders of the Hindu community at the Institution of Diploma Engineers auditorium in Dhaka on Friday (July 31).
Mirza Fakhrul highlighted that democracy had been destroyed over the past 15 years, but the nation has now emerged from that dire situation, creating a fresh opportunity to institutionalize democratic values.
“We will move forward shoulder to shoulder. We must progress keeping our heritage and culture at the forefront, honoring our 1971 Liberation War alongside the spirit of 2024. We do not want to leave anything behind.”
He firmly asserted that those who try to erase the legacy of the 1971 Liberation War do not truly believe in Bangladesh. At the same time, the 2024 mass uprising cannot be minimized, as countless youths sacrificed their lives for democracy, forcing the autocratic regime from power.
Reiterating the commitment to building a liberal and democratic Bangladesh, Mirza Fakhrul emphasized:
Zero Tolerance for Extremism: No form of radicalism or religious extremism will be tolerated in the country.
Resisting Religious Division: Certain quarters are deliberately attempting to sow discord in the name of religion, a plot that will be thwarted alongside the public.
Safety of Minority Communities: The government will always stand by the Hindu community to ensure their safety and prevent any discrimination or divide.
The BNP Secretary General expressed sincere gratitude to the Hindu community for their support and trust in the Bangladesh Nationalist Party during elections, reiterating his vision for an inclusive, non-communal, and democratic Bangladesh for all citizens.
