Dhaka, Dec 05 (V7N) — Leaders of various religious communities gathered at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital for a crucial meeting with Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. The discussions, aimed at fostering unity and addressing pressing national issues, emphasized the importance of preserving Bangladesh’s tradition of religious harmony.

Key Discussions and Statements

  • Religious Harmony and Neutrality
    Mahajan Swami Hari Premanand of the Ramakrishna Mission highlighted the importance of maintaining a neutral and non-communal Bangladesh. He stressed the need for collective efforts to uphold the country’s longstanding harmony.

  • External Influence and Minority Protection
    Avinash Mitra, Co-Secretary of Ramna Harichand Mandir, expressed concerns over divisive narratives being spread from outside the country. He urged vigilance against foreign attempts to incite communal unrest, particularly against minority groups.

  • Focus on Minority Rights
    Sheikh Ahmadullah, representing the Muslim community, underscored the need to protect minority groups from oppression. He stated, “There is no division among us, and those who aim to create discord must not succeed.”

  • Unity Amid Challenges
    Father Albert Rosario, speaking for the Christian community, called for national unity during these trying times. He also raised concerns about tensions surrounding ISKCON and sought intervention from the Chief Advisor to ease the situation.

  • International Conference Proposal
    Dr. Sukamal Barua, Chief Advisor of the Buddhist Federation, proposed hosting an international conference to showcase Bangladesh’s culture of harmony.

  • Countering Misinformation
    Garo priest Johnson Mri urged proactive measures to prevent the spread of misinformation, pledging support for the government’s efforts to maintain communal peace.

  • Hefazat-e-Islam’s Perspective
    Senior leaders from Hefazat-e-Islam, including Junaid Al Habib and Sajidur Rahman, emphasized unity against destabilizing forces. Rahman remarked, “Even after tragic incidents like the killing of Muslims, Bangladesh has remained peaceful. This is a testament to our harmony, which must be upheld.”

The Chief Advisor listened attentively to the leaders and assured them of his commitment to safeguarding the nation’s harmony. The meeting highlighted the collective resolve of religious communities to resist external provocations and maintain Bangladesh’s rich tradition of coexistence.

This gathering comes at a time when the country faces significant internal and external pressures, underscoring the importance of solidarity and mutual respect.

END/MSS/AJ