Bangladesh Belongs to All, Army Chief Reaffirms Equality

Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman reaffirmed that Bangladesh belongs equally to people of all religions and communities, emphasizing that every citizen enjoys equal rights regardless of faith, ethnicity, or identity.

“There will be no discrimination based on religion, caste, or background. We have lived in harmony and will continue to uphold this spirit,” he said while inaugurating the Janmashtami procession at Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon.

Highlighting the country’s long tradition of communal harmony, the army chief added, “Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Bengalis, hill people, and indigenous communities have coexisted peacefully for centuries. Our commitment today is to preserve this harmony and ensure peaceful coexistence. Bangladesh belongs to all of us, and every citizen has equal rights.”

General Waker-uz-Zaman also stated that the armed forces will continue to stand beside the people. “Along with the navy and air force, our forces are deployed nationwide. We are united and will continue to work with you,” he said.

He wished that the ideals of Lord Krishna inspire society. “May Krishna’s teachings spread everywhere so we may live together peacefully and with mutual respect,” he added.

Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, Chief of Air Staff, said Krishna’s teachings inspire courage against falsehood and injustice and guide people toward truth and righteousness.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan urged 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,” he said.

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 Dhaka.