Equal Rights for All in Bangladesh: Army Chief

Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has affirmed that the rights of every citizen in Bangladesh are equal, irrespective of religion, caste, or ethnicity. He emphasised that there will be no discrimination in the country, where all communities will continue to live peacefully with harmony and mutual respect.

On Saturday afternoon, while inaugurating the Janmashtami procession at Dhakeshwari National Temple, General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated: “In Bangladesh, everyone’s rights are equal. There will be no discrimination based on religion or caste. We are living with harmony and brotherhood today, and we will continue to do so in the future.”

He further pledged to uphold the spirit of communal harmony: “Our commitment today is to preserve this atmosphere of fraternity and live together in peace. There will be no division between religions, castes, or ethnicities. This country belongs to all of us. We are all its citizens, and every right belongs equally to each of us. With this spirit, we look forward to building a brighter future.”

The Army Chief described Bangladesh as a nation of communal harmony, noting the centuries-long coexistence of diverse communities: “For hundreds of years, Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, and indigenous hill communities have been living here peacefully with mutual respect. Present today are the chiefs of the Navy and Air Force, and across the country our armed forces remain deployed. Together, we stand beside you and will continue to work alongside you.”

On the teachings of Lord Krishna, General Waker-Uz-Zaman said: “The ideals of Lord Shri Krishna should spread everywhere. Based on these ideals, we shall continue to live beautifully together in this country.”

Voices from the Armed Forces

Other chiefs of the armed services also addressed the gathering:

• Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan stated: “The teachings of Shri Krishna not only inspire us to stand against falsehood and injustice but also guide us along the path of truth. This Bangladesh belongs to all of us. Protecting independence is our sacred duty. If we work together, we can establish Bangladesh as a dignified state on the world map.”
• Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hassan added: “Let us strengthen the nation through mutual tolerance. May Lord Krishna ignite the light of truth and justice in society.”

Earlier in the morning, the religious observances of Janmashtami began at the Dhakeshwari temple with a Gita Yajna (recitation of the Bhagavad Gita). Rituals and prayers were performed for the welfare of all living beings. Hundreds of devotees, priests, and ordinary worshippers attended.

Many of the devotees expressed that Janmashtami is not only a festival but also a symbol of justice prevailing over injustice.

Highlights of the Janmashtami Programme