Photo: Kaler Kantho
Bangla Press Desk: State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, Mir Shahe Alam, stated that the government led by Tarique Rahman makes no distinction between the Muslim and Hindu communities. He remarked, "Members of the Hindu community are very close to us."
The State Minister made these comments on Friday morning during an event where he distributed cash grants—funded from his own resources—to 65 *puja mandaps* (worship venues) across the Shibganj and Mokamtala areas.
Mir Shahe Alam noted that during the last election, the Hindu community demonstrated their affection for Tarique Rahman and the 'sheaf of paddy' (the BNP's electoral symbol). "The BNP, in turn, has shown that we are one of your own. The BNP believes in equal rights for people of all religions," he said.
In a briefing following the event, the State Minister emphasized that both the government and the BNP stand with the Hindu community to ensure that the Sharadiya Durga Puja is celebrated in a joyful and festive atmosphere nationwide. Measures have been taken to provide comprehensive support, including social security.
He remarked that, in the past, a certain political party viewed the Hindu community as their own "political asset." However, through their votes in the last election, the Hindu community proved that they are not subservient to any single party.
"They, too, possess the right to freely cast their votes for candidates of their own choosing. We wish to stand by them as kindred spirits," he added.
The State Minister highlighted various government initiatives for this year's Durga Puja, noting that the holiday for the festival has been extended by one day. Additionally, the government has arranged for the provision of 600 kg of rice for each temple.
On behalf of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, *saris* have been provided for Hindu women. Furthermore, BNP leaders and activists have also come forward to support the Hindu community.
Mir Shahe Alam further announced that, for this year's Durga Puja, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will visit temples outside of Dhaka—specifically in Rangpur, Rajshahi, and Chattogram. He described this as a reflection of the government's equitable approach toward people of all faiths.
The State Minister also criticized the 11-party alliance, alleging that they secured votes by promising "entry into heaven" (*behesht*), yet are now acting irresponsibly from the opposition benches. He asserted that, amidst a fragile economic situation, the BNP has taken on the responsibility of governing the state as a true "government of the people." The government has been in power for only six months; it is therefore ridiculous for the opposition to already be pushing a 'single-point demand.'
He urged the opposition to cooperate with the government in the national interest. He stated that the BNP does not believe in 'sham' or 'dummy' elections. "We will strive to resolve the nation's problems, and only then will we seek the people's mandate. If the people vote for us, we will form the government; if not, we will sit in the opposition." The BNP seeks to attain power solely through the votes of the people.
BP/TD
