I am determined to establish equal rights for everyone irrespectively: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has reiterated his firm determination to establish equal rights for every citizen, irrespective of religious beliefs, and to build a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Bangladesh where people of all faiths can live together in harmony.

The Prime Minister made the remarks during a meeting with several organizers of Durga Puja and prominent Hindu community leaders at his office on Monday. The meeting focused on communal harmony, religious freedom, the safety of Hindu devotees and the government's preparations to ensure that the upcoming Durga Puja festivities are celebrated peacefully and without disruption across the country.

During the meeting, the Hindu leaders expressed satisfaction with the prevailing atmosphere of peace and harmony since the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) assumed power in February 2026. They said members of the Hindu community had been living alongside people of other religious backgrounds in an environment of mutual respect and understanding.

The leaders also discussed the importance of maintaining peaceful relations among communities and ensuring that every citizen can exercise their religious rights freely and confidently.

Tarique Rahman listened to their views and reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious identity, 

ethnicity or social background. He stressed that Bangladesh belongs to all its people and that the country's strength lies in its diversity, mutual respect and shared aspirations for a better future.

The Prime Minister reiterated that his government was determined to establish a society in which no citizen would face discrimination, exclusion or insecurity because of their religious beliefs. He emphasised that people of different faiths must have equal opportunities to practise their religions, participate in national life and contribute to the country's development.

According to the meeting's discussion, Tarique Rahman assured the Hindu leaders that all necessary initiatives had been taken to enable Hindu devotees throughout Bangladesh to celebrate Durga Puja smoothly, safely and peacefully.

He underlined the importance of effective coordination among the relevant authorities to ensure that worshippers could attend temples, participate in religious ceremonies and enjoy the festivities without fear or unnecessary obstacles.

Durga Puja, one of the most significant religious festivals of the Hindu community, is celebrated with elaborate rituals, cultural programmes and gatherings at temples and temporary pavilions across Bangladesh. The festival also provides an opportunity for people of different religious backgrounds to exchange greetings, visit celebrations and strengthen bonds of friendship.

Ensuring security during the festival is therefore an important responsibility for the authorities. Appropriate arrangements, cooperation with local communities and timely responses to potential security concerns can help create an atmosphere in which devotees celebrate their religious traditions with confidence.

Tarique Rahman's assurances reflect the importance his government places on religious freedom and peaceful coexistence. His message also highlights the principle that national development cannot be separated from social stability, equal treatment and respect for individual rights.

The Prime Minister's emphasis on equality is particularly significant in a country where Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians and people of other beliefs share the same national identity. Protecting the rights of religious minorities, while safeguarding the freedoms of all citizens, is essential to strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions and promoting a society based on justice.

Political observers have long regarded communal harmony as an important factor in Bangladesh's social and economic progress. Peaceful relations among communities can help encourage investment, support local development and create a stable environment for education, business and cultural activities.

However, transforming commitments to equality into lasting public confidence requires consistent implementation. Fair treatment by public institutions, access to justice, effective law enforcement and accountability for wrongdoing remain essential to ensuring that every citizen enjoys the same protection under the law.

The Hindu community representatives welcomed the opportunity to exchange views with the Prime Minister and discuss matters affecting their religious and social life. Their participation also underscored the importance of dialogue between the government and community representatives in identifying concerns and developing practical solutions.

Among those present at the meeting were Hindu leaders Ramesh Dutta, Alak Saha, Narayan Chandra Saha, Shikha Rani Das, along with several other dignitaries and organizers associated with Durga Puja.

The meeting concluded with a renewed emphasis on peace, mutual respect and cooperation among people of all religious communities.

Tarique Rahman's stated vision is to build a Bangladesh where every citizen can live with dignity, enjoy equal rights and contribute to national progress without discrimination. The success of that vision will depend on sustained efforts to uphold the rule of law, protect religious freedom and ensure that the promise of equality is reflected in the everyday experiences of all Bangladeshis.

As Durga Puja approaches, the government's commitment to peaceful celebrations and equal treatment carries an important message: religious identity should never be a barrier to citizenship, security or opportunity in Bangladesh.