Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today spoke at a programme held at the Dhakeshwari National Temple. Photo : PID

DHAKA, April 17, 2026 (BSS) - Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today reaffirmed the government's commitment to building a discrimination-free Bangladesh where diversity is embraced as strength.

"Establishing unity amid diversity is our core principle," the minister said, underscoring that the government aims to serve all citizens equally-regardless of political affiliation or voting history.

Speaking at a vibrant programme held at the Dhakeshwari National Temple in the capital, Nitai highlighted that the government, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, began implementing its election promises from day one. 

He described the government as "a government of the people," dedicated to fairness, equality, and inclusive development.

Mohanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee organized the programme which brought together community leaders, students, and distinguished guests for the inauguration of "Mohanagar Family Day," alongside an awards ceremony and scholarship distribution for meritorious students.

Reflecting on the foundations of a democratic society, the minister noted that differences in opinions and ideologies are natural. 

"Our responsibility is to bring unity within this diversity," he said, pointing to constitutional guarantees that ensure equality for all citizens. "Ethnically we are Bengali, but geographically we are all Bangladeshi-bound by a shared identity and future," he said.

Addressing concerns of minority communities, Nitai offered a message of empathy and assurance. 

"Where you feel pain, I feel the same pain," he said, pledging that all issues would be addressed in line with government policies. He also expressed gratitude for the support shown by minority groups in the recent election.

In a significant announcement, the minister declared that the Dhakeshwari Temple would be preserved as a national heritage site. The Ministry of Culture, he said, will take steps to conserve and develop the temple while safeguarding its historical and cultural legacy.

Mohanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee president Jayanta Kumar Deb chaired the programme while its General Secretary Dr. Tapas Chandra Pal delivered welcome address. 

Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator and freedom fighter Md. Abdus Salam inaugurated the programme.

Lawmaker Md. Hamidur Rahman, Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad President Basudeb Dhar, General Secretary Santosh Sharma, and Dhaka University's Jagannath Hall Provost Debashish Paul also spoke.

"Gunijon Award" was handed over to Mohanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee members Manju Dhar and Babul Das for their notable contributions. 

The minister also handed over scholarship cheques and certificates to first-year college and university students, recognizing academic excellence and encouraging future leadership.