Fisheries and Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid today emphasized that ensuring religious freedom for every citizen and preserving communal harmony is one of the key commitments of the government. He made these remarks while addressing the traditional Rath Yatra festival of the Hindu community as the chief guest in Cumilla. The minister highlighted that the country has long been a shining example of religious harmony.
Historical Context and Communal Harmony
Amin Ur Rashid noted that the history of Cumilla reflects mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and goodwill among people of different faiths. He acknowledged that although vested groups have attempted to create communal divisions at various times, they have never succeeded due to the people's awareness and unity. The minister assured that no anti-social or extremist force would be able to undermine the country's communal harmony in the future.
Role of Religion and Festivals
The minister added that all religions teach justice, peace, human welfare, and compassion. He opined that religion should not be used as a tool for division but rather as a source of human values and social unity. Praising the enthusiastic participation of devotees in the Rath Yatra procession, he said such festivals strengthen the spirit of brotherhood and play an important role in maintaining social harmony.
Amin Ur Rashid called upon the people of all faiths to uphold mutual respect and tolerance in order to build a non-communal, peaceful, and prosperous Bangladesh. Among the attendees were Cumilla City Corporation Administrator Md. Yusuf Mollah Tipu, Chairman of the Cumilla Development Authority Udbatul Bari Abu, Deputy Commissioner Rozi Akhter, Superintendent of Police Md. Anisuzzaman, Cumilla Adarsha Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Fatema Tuz Zohra, senior government officials, leaders of the Hindu community, and a large number of devotees.
