All faiths enjoy equal rights: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said the government has been working for the welfare of the people of all faiths living in the country.

“We have been establishing Bangladesh as a non-communal country. Here, all citizens have equal rights,” she said.

The prime minister was exchanging Christmas greetings with the leaders of the Christian community, joining a function virtually in Bangladesh Agriculture Research Council in the capital’s Farmgate from her office.

She greeted all the people of the Christian community in the country on the occasion of Christmas, to be celebrated on Sunday.

Hasina said her government has always stood by all people during any crisis. “We believe that we have to work for all citizens of the country,” she said.

In this context, she mentioned the measures taken by the Awami League government for the welfare of the transgender community and other disadvantaged communities.

“We have secured their (Hijra community) rights in the Constitution. They are recognised as ‘third gender’ in terms of job seeking, in all forms or identity cards,” she said.

Referring to the mosque-based education, she said the AL government has arranged the same education in Hindu temples, churches and other places of worship.

The PM said if she sees any particular community lagging, she would bring them forward and ensure education, jobs, livelihood and other facilities for them.

“This is the country with a non-communal spirit that we want to build,” said the prime minister.