Pabna, Sept 21 (V7N) – Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) seeks to establish equality amid discrimination and opposes communalism, Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury said on Sunday.
He made the remarks while addressing devotees as the chief guest at the second day of a religious festival marking the 139th birth anniversary of Sri Sri Thakur Anukul Chandra at the Satsang Ashram in Himaithpur, Pabna.
Referring to the BNP’s political position, Roy Chowdhury said the party is opposed to communalism and seeks to establish equality among people. He claimed that members of the Hindu community voted for the BNP’s Dhaner Shish symbol in the last parliamentary election, enabling the party to form the government.
The minister said Bangladesh has a history, heritage and culture spanning thousands of years. He alleged that the previous government had attempted to undermine the country’s cultural heritage through what he described as “degrading” practices.
The government has established diplomatic and cultural ties with 51 countries, he said, adding that Pabna is a district rich in cultural heritage.
He said the government would take steps to further develop the cultural heritage of Pabna and other parts of the country and seek to promote unity through culture despite the country’s diversity.
Speaking about the teachings of Thakur Anukul Chandra, Roy Chowdhury said the messages contained in the scriptures of different religions are intended for human welfare. He said Anukul Chandra’s teachings also focused on the welfare of humanity and rejected distinctions based on caste.
The minister said Anukul Chandra devoted his life to humanity and that his teachings have attracted followers across the Indian subcontinent and beyond.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam, speaking as a special guest, said Anukul Chandra’s ideals and compassion remain an example for society. He said Anukul Chandra did not distinguish among people on the basis of religion, caste or political differences and sought to ensure dignity for everyone.
Khaiyam said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman also seeks unity rather than division among people.
The event was chaired by Pran Shankar Das, president of the Satsang Central Ashram. Advocate Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, member of parliament for Pabna Sadar, delivered a welcome address.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Bijon Kanti Sarkar, Pabna Deputy Commissioner Aminul Islam, Additional Superintendent of Police Shakhawat Hossain, Pabna district BNP convener Habibur Rahman Habib and member secretary Masud Khandaker were also present.
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