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The interim government in Bangladesh, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has taken a proactive approach to ensuring a peaceful and harmonious Durga Puja celebration. In a bid to foster inter-religious respect, the government has advised Durga Puja committees to refrain from using musical instruments and sound systems during the Islamic call to prayer (azan) and prayer times (namaz). This directive stems from a meeting convened by the interim government to address law and order concerns ahead of the festivities.
The interim government has not only focused on mitigating potential conflicts but has also emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of the Hindu community during Durga Puja. Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, during the meeting, underscored the commitment to facilitating unhindered celebrations while actively preventing any disruptive activities. To achieve this, the government plans to implement robust security measures, including the recruitment of volunteers to maintain order at the puja mandaps (temples).
Recognizing potential cross-border movement during Durga Puja, the government has also urged individuals to refrain from traveling across the border to attend festivities. The Home Affairs Adviser has encouraged the organization of well-equipped puja mandaps in border areas to minimize the need for such travel. This initiative aims to prevent potential security risks and promote harmony between communities on both sides of the border.
The interim government's commitment to ensuring religious harmony and the safety of minority groups has been further underscored by Chief Adviser Yunus's public statements. He has explicitly called for unity and respect, urging everyone to refrain from actions that could disrupt religious harmony. Furthermore, Yunus reassured Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the interim government's commitment to safeguarding the Hindu community and all minority groups in Bangladesh. These actions demonstrate the interim government's proactive approach to addressing potential tensions and creating an environment conducive to peaceful celebrations.
The Durga Puja celebration in Bangladesh carries significant religious and cultural importance, and the interim government's efforts to ensure a secure and harmonious environment are crucial. The measures taken by the government, including the sound system restrictions, security deployments, and appeals for communal harmony, demonstrate their commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence and upholding the rights of all citizens.