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DINAJPUR — Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Professor Dr AZM Zahid Hossain has said all citizens of Bangladesh enjoy equal rights regardless of their religion or ethnicity, stressing that their common identity as Bangladeshis should unite them.
“There is no reason for anyone to consider themselves weak or a minority, as everyone is a citizen of Bangladesh and has equal rights,” he said, calling for collective efforts to build a humane, inclusive and equitable society.
The minister made the remarks during a visit to Kadimnagar Sarbojanin Durga Puja Mandir in Ghoraghat municipality of Dinajpur on Wednesday, where he exchanged views with members of the Sanatan religious community.
Emphasising the importance of inclusive politics, Dr Zahid said political parties should remain engaged in public service throughout the year rather than approach people only during election campaigns.
Referring to the absence this year of people who had previously been assigned to guard Durga Puja mandaps, he alleged that some had been deployed ahead of last year’s election to win the support of the Hindu community but were no longer visible.
“So, do they engage in politics only for power?” he asked.
The minister highlighted what he described as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) consistent commitment to public service, saying the party had continued its engagement with the people both in opposition and in government.
He urged citizens to evaluate political parties based on their actions and contributions to public welfare rather than their election-time promises.
Dr Zahid also called on BNP leaders and activists to strengthen public confidence through welfare-oriented activities and sustained engagement with communities.
Ghoraghat Upazila Nirbahi Officer Rubana Tanzin, officials from the local administration and police, BNP leaders and activists, and local dignitaries attended the programme. Himangshu Kumar Saha, president of Kadimnagar Sarbojanin Durga Mandir, was also present.