Bangladesh committed to upholding its secular identity: Ministry

The interim government has assured the international community that the government is committed to upholding the secular and inclusive identity of the people of Bangladesh.

"The government of Bangladesh considers it a responsibility to ensure the safety of all citizens, especially members of religious minorities, in Bangladesh," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a media release on Monday.

Reiterating the secular and inclusive values ​​of Bangladesh, the Hindu community of Bangladesh celebrated its biggest festival, Durga Puja, in a joyful atmosphere, the ministry said.

On the occasion of Durga Puja, more than 32,000 mandapas were set up across Bangladesh, where Hindu women, men, and children paid respect to the goddess.

This 10-day-long festival ended on Sunday evening in a cordial atmosphere across the country.

The government congratulated all the Hindus for celebrating Durga Puja in a festive atmosphere with full faith in all the steps taken by the government ignoring any kind of provocation and propaganda, said the ministry.

In the wake of a few incidents across the country in the last week, the government immediately took strict measures. So far, 11 cases have been filed and 17 people arrested in connection with these incidents.

Communal harmony and peaceful coexistence is the eternal identity of Bangladesh which unites all, said the government.

The government of Bangladesh firmly believes that every person, regardless of his or her religion or belief, has the right to practise his or her religious activities without any hindrance, according to the ministry.