People of Bangladesh enjoying full religious freedom: Mahfuj

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md Mahfuj Alam on Monday said that the people of Bangladesh are enjoying the highest level of religious freedom.

He made the remark during a meeting with a delegation from the US Commission on International Religious Freedom at the Industries Ministry.

Highlighting the historical context of long-standing Muslim-Hindu coexistence in the region, Mahfuj said, “Currently, no citizen in Bangladesh is being discriminated on the basis of religion. People of all faiths are enjoying equal rights.”

The adviser said the government is extending full support to ensure the smooth celebration of religious festivals across different communities.

Stating that there has been no incident of minority oppression in recent months, Mahfuj said the government has taken a firm stance to prevent such occurrences. “A vested quarter is always spreading propaganda that minority oppression is happening in Bangladesh. Everyone must raise their voice against such propaganda,” he added.

Mahfuj Alam also noted that some minority communities consider themselves allies of the Awami League (AL) and continue to work in favour of the party.

Chairman of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom Stephen Schneck, US Embassy in Dhaka Charg, d’Affaires Megan Boldin, Political Economic Counselor Eric Gillan, and Senior Policy Analyst of the Commission Sima Hasan were present at the event.