Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today vowed that no direct, indirect, visible or invisible conspiracy to divide the nation on the basis of religion, ethnicity, locality, language, race or gender will be allowed to succeed. He emphasized that exploiting religion for political or personal interests is against the teachings of all faiths and the fundamental principles of humanity.
Distinction Between Politics and Religion
Addressing the biennial conference of the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, Barishal district chapter, Swapon highlighted the distinction between politics and religion. He noted that political thought centers on public welfare and social interests, whereas religious philosophy revolves around the Almighty Creator. Swapon stressed that no political symbol, electoral mark, party, or leader is divinely ordained, and people will accept them only if they serve the public welfare.
Commitment to Communal Harmony
The minister underscored the importance of communal harmony and raised public awareness about identifying those who exploit religion for personal gain. He called on pious individuals to raise their voices against any attempts to transform religious sentiments into communal divides. Swapon expressed the government's commitment to ensuring equal rights for all citizens, highlighting Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's stance that religion belongs to individuals, but the state belongs to everyone.
The conference was chaired by Barishal District Puja Udjapan Parishad President Manik Mukharjee Kudu. Barishal City Corporation Administrator Bilkis Akter Jahan Shirin and Zila Parishad Administrator Akon Kuddusur Rahman attended as special guests. Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad Central General Secretary and journalist Santosh Sharma addressed the function as the main discussant. The event began with the hoisting of the national flag, followed by a reception for five valiant freedom fighters.
