Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus emphasised national unity, declaring, “We are Bangladeshis, members of one family,” during a meeting with religious leaders at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Thursday.
Addressing the leaders, Yunus said, “We may have differing opinions, religions, and traditions, but we are one family. Despite these differences, we are not enemies of each other. We must stand together where our national identity and unity are concerned.”
Dr. Yunus explained that the meeting aimed to address the public’s concerns about the country’s current situation. He recalled an appeal made on 8 August after the formation of the interim government following the July coup. “It wasn’t a political or popular statement; it was a heartfelt call to view ourselves as one family, despite our diversity,” he said.
The Chief Adviser reflected on his initial days in office, mentioning reports of violence against minorities. Following these reports, he visited the Dhakeshwari Temple to meet with community leaders, who presented their demands, including ensuring equal rights for all citizens.
“One demand stood out—equal rights for everyone: the right to speak, the right to practice religion, and the right to work. These rights must stem from the constitution, and it is the state’s responsibility to uphold them,” Yunus said. He assured the minority community that the government was committed to addressing their concerns and safeguarding their constitutional rights.
He also recounted taking measures to ensure the safety of minorities during religious festivals, particularly the Hindu community. “I anticipated potential attacks during these times and worked to ensure adequate security to prevent any violence against them,” he added.
Yunus also acknowledged a gap between the reality of the situation and how it is portrayed in international media. “The issue of attacks on minorities has resurfaced, and foreign media are publishing news on it. We must collect accurate information to address these concerns and establish a reliable process for gathering facts while ensuring the safety of those providing information,” he said.
He stressed the importance of immediate action when incidents of violence against minorities occur, including gathering information and bringing perpetrators to justice. He also called for measures to create an environment that prevents such attacks and ensures swift remedies for victims.
“I believe most of the people of Bangladesh agree on what I have said,” Yunus stated, reaffirming his government’s dedication to fostering unity and protecting citizens’ constitutional rights.
The meeting was attended by leaders representing various religious communities who expressed their views on building a more inclusive and secure environment for all.
