‘Religion belongs to each, the right to security belongs to all’ — Tarique Rahman in Durga Puja message
Photo: Collected
Extending greetings on Sharadiya Durga Puja to members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh and across the world, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said, ‘Religion belongs to each, the state belongs to all. Religion belongs to each, the right to security belongs to all.’ He also called for the Durga Puja festival to be celebrated with enthusiasm, in a carefree and safe manner.
The prime minister made these remarks in a message issued on Friday marking Durga Puja.
In the message, he noted that, according to the Hindu faith, goddess Durga comes down from heaven to the earth seeking the welfare of the world. She brings about the well-being of devotees, destroys enemies and nurtures creation. The destruction of evil forces and the worship of truth and beauty have given a unique dimension to the significance of the Sharadiya Durga festival.
In the prime minister’s words, people of different faiths in Bangladesh observe their own religious festivals, and it is in these religious festivities that the beauty of the country’s age-old religious and social values and culture is revealed. Through religious, cultural and social activities, the bonds of mutual friendship, harmony, cordiality and brotherhood among people of different religions, clans and communities are expressed.
Describing equality, human dignity and social justice as the core subject matter of all religions, the prime minister said the welfare of humanity is also one of the teachings of every religion. Therefore, alongside practising one’s own religious injunctions and culture, it is essential to ensure a peaceful environment in society by maintaining mutual respect, honour and compassion towards people.
He further said that after the ouster of the fascist at the cost of thousands of lives, Bangladesh has once again begun its journey towards democracy and a huge endeavour to rebuild the country has begun. Establishing a welfare-oriented, safe and humane Bangladesh for all citizens irrespective of party, opinion, religion and colour is their commitment.
Expressing the hope that the country’s multi-dimensional society and outlook on life will be enriched by the message of cordiality and harmony, Tarique Rahman said he wants brothers and sisters of the Hindu community to be able to celebrate the Durga Puja festival across the country with enthusiasm, in a carefree and safe manner.
