A storm of controversy has erupted in Bangladesh after the ‘Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council’ (BHBCUC) issued a strong condemnation of a Deputy State Minister’s recent comments on Durga Puja, describing the remarks as “deeply communal, divisive, and dangerous.”
In a press statement released on Tuesday, 7th of October, the Council expressed alarm over the Deputy Minister’s reported claim that “religious observances often breed disorder” — a remark made just as preparations for Durga Puja were in full swing across more than 31,000 temples and community centers nationwide.
“Such irresponsible remarks from a member of the government not only insult the religious sentiments of millions but also risk inciting hatred and violence against minority communities,” the statement read.
The BHBCUC warned that inflammatory rhetoric of this nature could embolden extremist groups and undermine the country’s fragile communal harmony. It called upon the government to distance itself from the statement immediately and to reaffirm its commitment to protecting freedom of religion as guaranteed by the Constitution of Bangladesh.
The Council’s Central Committee emphasized that Bangladesh’s Durga Puja festival — the largest Hindu celebration in the nation — has long stood as a symbol of harmony, artistry, and inclusivity. The press release stated that equating such a festival with disorder or chaos is “a deliberate distortion aimed at marginalizing minority communities.”
Manindra Kumar Nath, the BHBCUC’s Joint General Secretary, signed the release, saying:
“These words from a government official can easily be exploited by fundamentalist forces to justify violence against minorities. The government must take firm action to ensure that such communal rhetoric has no place in public discourse.”
The statement further reminded authorities of past incidents in which similar remarks had triggered attacks on temples, vandalism, and mob violence. It urged law enforcement agencies to remain alert and ensure full protection of all Durga Puja venues this year.
In conclusion, the BHBCUC called upon the government and all democratic forces to “stand united against communal propaganda and uphold the secular, inclusive spirit of Bangladesh.”
