Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad on Monday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting minority communities, declaring that no form of oppression, discrimination or violence against people of different faiths would be tolerated in Bangladesh.
Speaking at a dialogue organised by the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum at the Secretariat Media Centre in Dhaka, the minister said safeguarding the rights and security of minorities remains a moral and constitutional responsibility of the state.
“I would even step down from my position if necessary, but I will not accept any persecution, injustice or cruelty against minorities or followers of other religions,” Kaikobad said while responding to questions from journalists.
During the discussion, the minister was also asked about allegations of persecution faced by minority Muslims in India and whether Bangladesh would formally raise the matter with New Delhi. In response, he described India as a large democratic country and expressed hope that it would ensure equal protection and rights for all minority communities living there.
Kaikobad said he respected India’s democratic traditions and added that ensuring the dignity and safety of minorities would further strengthen that image internationally.
At the same time, he stressed that Bangladesh would not allow communal violence or discriminatory incidents similar to those reported elsewhere. He said the government remains determined to preserve communal harmony and ensure peaceful coexistence among people of all faiths.
The programme was chaired by BSRF President Masudul Hoque and moderated by its General Secretary Ubaidullah Badal.
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