Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain has deemed former US president Donald Trump’s recent comments on the status of Bangladesh’s Hindu, Christian, and other minority communities “embarrassing.”
In response to a question posed by journalists following the opening of the two-day “Sunnah Foundation Conference Bangladesh-2024” at Daffodil International University in Birulia, Savar, on Sunday (3 November), the adviser shared his perspective on Trump’s remarks.
He stated, “In Bangladesh, the religious, social, and cultural rights of all communities are protected, and claims of harassment against them are not aligned with the reality we know.”
The adviser further suggested that Trump’s statements may have been politically motivated, saying, “Perhaps Donald Trump made these comments to garner votes. However, we firmly believe, and we are committed to ensuring, that members of all religions in this country are safe.”
Reaffirming the government’s stance, Dr Hossain added, “We have guaranteed the religious, business, and political rights of everyone. This is our commitment. If anyone seeks to desecrate a place of worship, we consider them criminals, not representatives of any religion. Bringing such offenders under the law is the government’s responsibility.”
The advisor continued by reiterating the government’s assurance of protection for all citizens, saying, “We have always upheld the religious and business rights of every citizen. Recently, during the Puja festival, we provided the highest level of security. Their demands are under the government’s consideration. We believe that, without tolerance, we cannot build a fair and harmonious society. By fostering mutual respect and a culture of tolerance and harmony, we can continue advancing toward communal solidarity.”
Addressing another topic, he remarked on the government’s decision to cancel free Hajj trips for officials not directly involved in the pilgrimage's organisation. He stated, “There was a trend of officials who had no role in managing Hajj travelling on government funds. We have decided in the Cabinet meeting that only those engaged in Hajj administration will go. We are no longer accommodating others in this regard.”
