DHAKA – In a series of landmark addresses aimed at steadying a nation in transition, Bangladesh’s top leadership has issued a clarion call for religious and ethnic harmony. The message is clear: the “New Bangladesh” must be a sanctuary for every citizen, regardless of their faith or geographic origin.

A Vision of Inclusion

The phrase, “This country belongs to the people of the hills and the plains, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians,” has become a cornerstone of the national discourse. Leaders have emphasized that the diversity of the Bangladeshi landscape—from the Chittagong Hill Tracts to the deltaic plains—is mirrored in the diversity of its people.

Addressing the Hindu community during recent festivals like Janmashtami and Saraswati Puja, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus reiterated that communal harmony is a “unique hallmark” of the country’s culture. “We are a nation of communal harmony,” Yunus stated, warning that any attempt to undermine this bond would be met with the full force of the law.

Political Shifts and the Path Forward

The sentiment was further echoed by BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman during his historic return to Dhaka. Speaking to massive crowds, Rahman invoked the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War, asserting that the right to live in peace and dignity belongs to every individual, whether they reside in the hills or the plains.

Addressing Challenges

Despite these calls for unity, the interim government continues to face significant challenges:

• Minority Safety: Recent incidents of unrest in districts like Mymensingh have prompted the government to deploy additional security and promise “exemplary punishment” for perpetrators of violence.

• Democratic Reforms: Efforts are underway to reform the electoral system and ensure that the upcoming polls are inclusive and transparent.

• Diplomatic Relations: Ensuring regional stability remains a priority as the government navigates evolving ties with neighboring India.

The Road Ahead

As Bangladesh prepares for its next chapter, the emphasis on a shared national identity serves as a bridge between its turbulent past and a democratic future. The government has called on citizens to remain vigilant against incitement and to uphold the values of mutual respect that define the nation.

“Our responsibility is to establish the rights of every citizen. There can be no division among people; we are all equal citizens.” — Prof. Muhammad Yunus

Tarique Rahman’s Homecoming Speech This video provides context on the political atmosphere and the rhetoric of inclusion used by major political figures in Bangladesh during recent rallies.