Desk Report:
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has stated that the government is making every effort to ensure the just rights and security of every citizen in the country, irrespective of religion or caste. He remarked that, as the head of government, it is his responsibility to guarantee the rights and entitlements due to every citizen.
The Prime Minister made these remarks on Monday (October 12, 2026) at the Bangladesh Secretariat while exchanging views with leaders of the Hindu community from the Dhaka-17 constituency. During the meeting, representatives from eight temples in the constituency invited the Prime Minister to participate in the upcoming Sharadiya Durga Puja celebrations.
The leaders praised the various initiatives undertaken by the government for the welfare of the Hindu community. They also thanked the Prime Minister for increasing the Durga Puja holiday duration and the associated financial grants.
In response, the Prime Minister stated that the work accomplished by the government in a short period demonstrates its genuine goodwill. He added that the government is striving to address several other issues as well.
Highlighting the contributions of people from all faiths to the country’s War of Independence and democratic movements, Tarique Rahman noted that his father had participated in the Liberation War. People of all religions—Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians—fought together in that war. Similarly, people from all backgrounds participated in the mass movement of 1990 and the movement of 2024, regardless of religion or caste.
The Prime Minister said, “If we did not consider religion during the nation’s critical junctures, why should we consider it in other matters? We liberated this country together. We all participated in the movement to establish democracy.”
Referring to the persecution faced by leaders and activists of various faiths during the rule of the fascist Awami League government, he noted that Hindu leaders and activists were subjected to oppression just as Muslim leaders and activists were; there was no distinction based on religion in these instances. Highlighting his responsibilities and position, Tarique Rahman said, “I personally believe that Allah the Almighty has granted me an opportunity. From my position, I will strive—not from a religious perspective, but as a human being—to ensure the utmost security for everyone within the limits of my capacity.”
He further stated that, as the head of government, it is his duty to ensure the rights and entitlements of every individual—both as a citizen and as a human being. He pledged to make every possible effort to uphold the legitimate rights of every citizen, acting in accordance with his responsibilities and obligations.
During the exchange of views, leaders of the Hindu community reported that they have been living peacefully since the national parliamentary election and have not faced any difficulties. They also remarked that the Hindu community did not make a mistake by voting for the BNP—a fact repeatedly proven by the various initiatives undertaken since the government assumed office.
