Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman appeals for religious harmony in Easter meeting

“Let us all work together, regardless of religion or background, from our respective positions to build a happy, prosperous and better Bangladesh. People of all religions and communities must come forward for the greater cause of the country,” he was quoted as saying by Dhaka Tribune.

He made the remarks while exchanging Easter greetings with leaders of the Protestant Church in Dhaka.

A 13-member delegation, led by Bishop Philip P. Adhikari, President of the Federation of Protestant Churches in Bangladesh, met the Prime Minister around 11:45 am and held discussions on the occasion of Easter Sunday, the report said.

Addressing the gathering, Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon said the Prime Minister extended his wishes for the success and prosperity of the Christian community.

Reaffirming his government’s position on religious harmony, Rahman stated: “We view people of all religions equally and love everyone in the same way. We believe religion belongs to individuals, but the country belongs to all.”

He further noted, “There was a perception that people of other religions do not vote for the BNP. This election has proven that wrong.”

Under Rahman’s leadership, the BNP returned to power after securing a decisive victory in the general elections.

This election marked the first national vote held in the country since the ouster of the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government in 2024 following widespread protests.

During the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh reportedly witnessed a rise in attacks against minority communities, particularly Hindus.