Religious leaders from several communities across Bangladesh have agreed to remain united against various domestic and international conspiracies and propaganda.
The consensus was reached during a meeting with Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Thursday evening, as the leaders shared their views with journalists afterward.
Avinash Mitra, Assistant Secretary of Ramna Harichand Temple, emphasised that there is no division among Bangladeshi communities. “The division arises from those infiltrating us and spreading propaganda from abroad. Their intent is self-serving, which we must resist. This is Bangladesh, where we live harmoniously as equals. Action must be taken against those who create unrest, regardless of their identity as Hindu, Muslim, or merely malicious individuals,” he said.
Bhikkhu Sunandapriyo Mahathera, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Buddhist Federation, highlighted the importance of communal harmony and urged the Chief Adviser to take steps to uphold it. “Living in harmony is our tradition. The Chief Adviser listened attentively to our concerns,” he said.
Father Albert Rosario, Chief Priest of St. Mary’s Cathedral in Ramna, expressed solidarity with recent political statements calling for unity during these challenging times. “We are going through a sensitive period and must stand together,” he stated.
Rosario also addressed the recent ISKCON incident, urging the Chief Adviser to engage with those affected to heal their grievances.
He added, “We should organise events that showcase Bangladesh's communal harmony to the world, emphasising that people of all faiths coexist peacefully. The nation has shown remarkable patience following the advocate’s murder. However, some Indian media have broadcast provocative reports that do not reflect reality.” Rosario also requested consideration for bail for an ISKCON member currently in custody if legally feasible.
Garo priest Johnson Murry Kamal stressed collective efforts to counter propaganda by certain media outlets. “We are united and will support the government in this regard,” he affirmed.
Sheikh Ahmadullah, Chairman of As-Sunnah Foundation, commended the dialogue initiative, noting that leaders from various faiths discussed the well-being of minority communities. “We see excellent communal harmony in the country, and we talked about preserving it. The Chief Adviser listened attentively,” he said.
Ahmadullah further stated, “Whenever minorities face persecution, our attention should focus on their safety. The government and religious leaders are actively working to ensure the safety of minority communities. We conveyed to the Chief Adviser that we stand united and will continue to do so.”
