President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today (21 October) urged the young generation to stand up for truth, justice and humanity, extending greetings of Bijoya Dashami to members of the Hindu community.
"Attempts are being made sometimes to create divisions through rumours, disinformation and religious extremism. We must remain firm and uncompromising against such attempts. The young generation, in particular, must stand up for truth, justice and humanity," he said.
The President said this at a state reception and exchange of greetings held at Durbar Hall of the Bangabhaban this morning on the occasion of Sharadiya Durga Puja and Bijoya Dashami 2026.
The President said the country belongs to everyone and all must work together to build it. "No evil force should be allowed to undermine national unity and progress by creating divisions," he added
He called for building a safe, democratic and humane Bangladesh based on mutual respect, equality and social justice.
"When wars, violence and communal conflicts are taking place in different parts of the world, people of all religions in Bangladesh are celebrating their respective festivals peacefully. This is our greatest achievement," he said.
"This harmony is our strength, our very existence. We must preserve it at all costs," he added.
Mirza Fakhrul Islam said Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony, and the people of this country have a non-communal spirit.
"People of all religions have been living together on this land for thousands of years in mutual respect and brotherhood," he noted.
"Participation of people of all religions in the Great Liberation War, as well as in all democratic struggles and movements against injustice, forms the foundation of national unity," he said.
Extending greetings to the Sanatan community people on the occasion, he said, "I am delighted to welcome you to Bangabhaban at this joyous gathering today."
"The underlying message of the festival is the destruction of evil forces and the victory of truth, beauty and welfare. Discrimination or oppression because of religion, race or community identity is totally unacceptable," he added.
In this connection, the President called for the formation of a national committee to ensure equal civic facilities for people of all religions.
"Religion is for individuals, but the state belongs to all. The right to have security and justice also belongs to all," he said.
Reiterating the government's commitment to ensure everyone's constitutional rights, the President said, "The Constitution has guaranteed every citizen equal rights, dignity and religious freedom. The government is committed to implementing this goal," he said.
The President said law enforcement agencies and the administration had been directed to remain vigilant to ensure that people of all religions could practise their faith in a safe and joyful environment.
Earlier, the leaders of the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust, Bangladesh Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Welfare Front, Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad and Mahanagar Sarbojanin Puja Committee greeted the President with flowers on behalf of their respective organisations upon his arrival at the credentials hall.
Then the President and the first lady, Rahat Tara Begum, exchanged greetings with all visitors and guests who came to Bangabhaban.
Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain, State Minister Mohammad Shamim Kaiser, Prime Minister's Special Assistant Bijon Kanti Sarkar and senior officials of the President's Office were also present.