Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo today said division based on religious identity is not expected; rather being Bangladeshi is the true identity of the people of the country.
"We do not want religious divisions among Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists or Christians. We are all Bangladeshis. This is our true identity," he said.
Mintoo made the remarks at a programme at the main Puja mandap in Das Para of Daganbhuiyan town here. Nimai Das moderated the event with Priya Lal Das in the chair.
From Tuesday evening until midnight, the minister visited several puja mandaps in Daganbhuiyan municipal town and the upazila's eight unions, exchanging greetings with members of the Hindu community.
He said Durga Puja is being celebrated in a peaceful and festive atmosphere, reflecting unity among people of different faiths.
"Hindus and Muslims come together as one during this festival. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has also instructed all cabinet members to visit puja mandaps in their respective areas and stand by the Hindu community to ensure the celebrations take place without hindrance," he said.
Mintoo said the administration, along with leaders and activists of the BNP and its affiliated organisations, is working to ensure peaceful Puja celebrations across the country.
Government officials, Hindu community leaders and local BNP leaders, among others, addressed the programme, reports BSS.