LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called upon the people to stay united against those attempting to divide the nation on the basis of religion.

He reaffirmed government's commitment to building a liberal democratic Bangladesh.

"We must stand against those who want to divide the country on the basis of religion. We cannot indulge fundamentalism. We want to build a liberal, democratic Bangladesh," he said.

The LGRD Minister, also the Secretary General of BNP, said this while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled "Ensuring Protection and Security of Minorities" organized by the Sammilita Sanatan Parishad at Diploma Engineers Institution auditorium in the city today (Friday).

Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury inaugurated the event.

Fakhrul emphasized that Bangladesh historically a land of harmony where people of all faiths are living together for thousands of years.

Recalling the nation's struggle for liberation, he noted that the 1971 War of Liberation was fought on the core ideals of freedom, sovereignty, and unity regardless of religious identity.

Acknowledging past democratic setbacks over the 15 years of Hasina regime, the Minister stressed that a fully functioning democratic system is the only guarantee for protecting the equal rights, freedom of worship, and life and property of all citizens.

Highlighting the government's inclusive policies, Fakhrul pointed out that the current administration in its 31-point state reform agenda outlined the plan to ensure representation of Sanatan, ethnic minority, plainland, and hill communities in the state affairs.

He added that the government has actively taken full measures to ensure safety and security during major religious festivals, including Durga Puja and Rath Yatra.

Reassuring members of religious minority communities, the minister urged them not to feel isolated or consider them as ‘minorities’, but to assert for their equal constitutional rights as equal citizens of the country.

"We are children of the same motherland. Guided by our shared culture and history, we will move forward together," he added.