BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has greeted the Hindu community on the occasion of Sharadiya Durga Puja, urging peaceful celebration and calling on law enforcement agencies to remain alert against any attempt to disturb communal harmony.

In a video message, Tarique said people of all faiths in Bangladesh observe their religious festivals with joy and respect, which reflects the country’s long-standing culture of religious and social values. “Through this, friendship, harmony, goodwill and brotherhood among communities flourish,” he said.

He urged law enforcement to ensure no attempts are made to create communal tensions during the festival, recalling incidents of unrest during the “fallen fascist regime.”

Addressing the Hindu community, Tarique encouraged them to celebrate “with enthusiasm, joy and in peace and security,” while promoting goodwill and harmony.

Reiterating BNP’s position that “religion belongs to the individual, but the state belongs to everyone,” he stressed that the constitution guarantees security for all citizens, regardless of faith. Quoting a Hadith, he also reminded that the Prophet (PBUH) warned against oppressing non-Muslims under state protection.