There is no scope for creating any division by exploiting religion in the country’s overall progress, said Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.
He made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a greeting exchange event held on the occasion of Easter Sunday, one of the major religious festivals of the Christian community. The event was held in Bhatara in the capital on Sunday.
Minister Mirza Fakhrul said certain specific political forces seek to practice the politics of self-interest by putting religion at the forefront. However, he emphasized that within the thousand-year social context of Bangladesh, there is no room for creating divides based on religion.
"We have lived in this land for thousands of years in peace, mutual brotherhood, and harmony. Religious belief is an entirely personal matter for individuals; we do not want to bring it into the state's administrative framework. We want to establish our beloved country as a non-communal state on the global stage," he said.
Criticizing the negative role of some political parties, the Local Government Minister added that certain "evil forces" attempt to create disunity and division for political gain.
He expressed regret that some parties even go as far as to deny the Great Liberation War. He urged citizens to strengthen brotherhood and harmony amidst the nation's diversity.
Addressing the ongoing fuel crisis, he noted that the situation has arisen due to global complexities. He said the government is making all-out efforts to import fuel quickly to meet domestic demand.
He addressed the general public, saying that the responsible ministers of the concerned ministry have repeatedly assured the nation that there is sufficient fuel stock in the country. Yet, some people, in panic, are repeatedly collecting fuel on motorcycles, creating an artificial shortage in the market. He warned that no one should pay attention to any kind of rumors.
In the concluding part of his speech, he touched on the political context, expressing gratitude to the people for their support. He said the government, under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, is committed to moving the country forward on the path of truth and justice.
