Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus emphasized the importance of unity and equality among all people in Bangladesh, regardless of differences in religion, caste, or opinion. Speaking at a meeting with leaders of various religious communities at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon, Dr Yunus said, “We are not enemies of one another despite our differences.”
During the meeting, Dr Yunus addressed concerns about minority rights and sought advice from religious leaders on gathering free and truthful information about the challenges faced by their communities.
He stated: “We must ensure that information is collected safely, without causing embarrassment to those providing it.”
Reiterating the importance of equality, Dr Yunus said: “We are all members of one family, and everyone has equal rights. Those who are guilty must be held accountable for their actions.”
Reflecting on past atrocities against minorities, he recalled his visit to the Dhakeshwari National Temple upon assuming office. “Their key demand was equality: the right to speak, the right to practice religion, and the right to work. These rights stem from our constitution, and it is the state’s duty to uphold them,” he said.
Dr Yunus also expressed concerns over misinformation, particularly in media reports. He said: “We are seeing reports of renewed attacks and torture. Some of this information comes from foreign media. There are glaring gaps in what we know, and that must end.”
He highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure security during the Durga Puja celebrations, saying: "That event became a national celebration, and I felt a sense of accomplishment knowing we contributed to it." However, he noted fresh concerns: "Now, however, we are hearing new reports of attacks and atrocities. Foreign and local media are reporting this, and I am investigating the situation. After looking into it, it seems the situation is not as severe as it’s being portrayed. The reports are inconsistent, and this is not acceptable.”
Dr Yunus called for greater vigilance and verification of information. “We cannot blindly rely on what we receive. We must investigate the root causes. Is this false propaganda from others, or are we responsible for spreading misinformation? We must uncover the truth,” he said.
He urged the creation of an environment where injustices cannot occur and immediate remedies for when they do. “We can only fulfill our responsibilities as one family if we prioritize accurate information and swift action,” he added.
Dr Yunus concluded with a call to action for a brighter future: “We want to build a New Bangladesh—a nation that ensures equality and justice for all. This is not a matter of rhetoric. It must be done, and it must be done quickly.”
The meeting included representatives from Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, and Muslim communities, along with indigenous hill tribes. Notable attendees included Mufti Abdul Malek, Khatib of the National Mosque, Sheikh Ahmadullah, Maulana Mosaddek Billah Al-Madani, Farhad Mazhar, and Dr Mohammad Manzur-e-Elahi.
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