Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman has stated that Bangladesh belongs equally to people of all religions and communities reaffirming that every citizen in Bangladesh enjoys equal rights, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or community.
“There will be no discrimination in this country based on faith, caste, or identity. We have been living in harmony and will continue to uphold this spirit in the future,” he said while inaugurating the Janmashtami procession at Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka on Saturday (August 16) afternoon.
Highlighting Bangladesh as a land of communal harmony, the army chief said, “For centuries, Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Bengalis, hill people, and indigenous communities have lived peacefully together in this country. On this day, our commitment should be to preserve this harmonious environment and ensure peaceful coexistence. This country belongs to all of us—each citizen has equal rights, and on that foundation, we envision a golden future.”
General Waker-uz-Zaman further said that the armed forces will always stand beside the people, “Along with the navy and air force chiefs, our forces are deployed across the country. We are united and will continue to work with you.”
He also wished for the ideals of Lord Krishna to inspire society, “May the teachings of Lord Krishna spread everywhere so that we may continue to live together peacefully and with mutual respect.”
Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, Chief of Air Staff, said Krishna’s teachings not only inspire courage to stand against falsehood and injustice but also guide people to walk the path of truth and righteousness.
“This Bangladesh belongs to all of us. Protecting our independence is our sacred responsibility. If we work together, we can establish Bangladesh as a dignified nation on the global stage,” he added.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan called for building a stronger nation through tolerance and mutual respect, “Let us strengthen our country with compassion and patience. May Lord Krishna ignite the light of truth and justice in our society.”
The three service chiefs inaugurated the Janmashtami procession by lighting ceremonial lamps. The colorful rally began from Palashi intersection and concluded at Bahadur Shah Park in the capital.
