Govt working with national interests in mind: Nahid 

The government wants to work with all for building a new Bangladesh, keeping national interests in mind, Adviser Nahid Islam said today (12 October).

"The government is working for a new Bangladesh. Just as we fought against the fascist regime regardless of religion or caste, we now want to work shoulder to shoulder for the building of this new Bangladesh," said the adviser to the Ministry of Post, Telecommunications, Information Technology, and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

He made these remarks while visiting the Durga Puja pavilions organised by the Gulshan Banani Universal Puja Foundation at Banani Field and the Uttara West Branch of the Metropolitan Universal Puja Committee on Friday.

Nahid Islam added, "We have made every effort to stand by the Hindu community. As part of that, we have extended the Durga Puja holiday by an additional day this year. 

"The individuals responsible for the unfortunate incidents after 5 August are being brought to justice. We want to ensure that no one can ever obstruct religious practices or freedoms in Bangladesh, and strict action will be taken against those who do."

He emphasised harmony and acknowledged the collective sacrifices made in the fight for a free Bangladesh, stating, "When we were shot at, those bullets didn't differentiate between Hindus and Muslims. All those who stood up for justice were targeted. If one community is harmed, it affects the entire nation. We are committed to working for the people of Bangladesh, ensuring that the benefits of the people's uprising reach everyone without discrimination."

Student representatives from the Minority Rights Movement, including Sushmita Kar and Lincoln Dutta, along with local Hindu leaders, were present during the visit.