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Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan on Friday said using religion as a political tool only creates division in society and undermines national unity.
Speaking at a discussion programme in Dhaka, the minister said those who attempt to create discord in society and the state in the name of religion are enemies of the nation, religion and God.
He urged people to remain steadfast in their own faith while respecting followers of all religions, saying Bangladesh has a long tradition of communal harmony that must be preserved.
“Every citizen has the right to practise his or her religion freely. No one should exploit religious sentiments for political purposes or to incite hatred,” he said.
Swapan stressed that peace, tolerance and mutual respect are the core values of all major religions. He called on political leaders, religious scholars and citizens to work together to prevent the spread of communalism and protect the country’s social harmony.
The minister also urged the media to play a responsible role in promoting unity and countering misinformation and hate speech that could fuel religious tensions.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights of people of all faiths and maintaining peace and stability across the country.
