Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam today said the July Uprising was founded on the spirit of non-communalism and that the government is committed to implementing every pledge of the July Charter.

“After a long struggle, the people of this country witnessed the rise of a new sun in July. The July Revolution was accomplished by embracing the spirit of non-communalism,” he said while inaugurating the historic Sri Sri Jashomadhab Rath Yatra at the Madhab Courtyard of the Sri Sri Jashomadhab Temple in Kayetpara of Dhamrai upazila in the district.

Later, the chief whip formally inaugurated the Rath Mela by releasing dove as a symbol of peace.

Referring to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s declaration, Nurul Islam said there are no minorities in Bangladesh and that Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians are all citizens with equal rights.

He said Bangladesh achieved its independence through the collective sacrifices of people of all faiths during the Liberation War, leaving no room for discrimination or division based on religion, said a press release of parliament secretariat.

The Chief Whip said the government ensures equal access to state benefits, including the Farmers Card, Family Card and Health Card, without any discrimination.

He alleged that in the past, the minority issue had been exploited for political purposes, with incidents such as attacks on temples, vandalism of idols and arson during religious festivals, including Durga Puja, aimed at creating communal divisions.

“Such activities have no place now,” he said, adding that there is no scope for extremism or communalism in the BNP.

Describing the historic Dhamrai Rath Yatra as a shining example of communal harmony, mutual respect and social cohesion, the Chief Whip said such events further strengthen the country’s pluralistic culture and national unity.

MP Md Tamiz Uddin of Dhaka-20 constituency and MP Sultana Ahmed attended the programme as special guests.

The event, chaired by Major General Jibon Kanai Das, was also addressed by Dhaka Zilla Parishad Administrator Yasin Ferdous Morad and Dhamrai Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Al Mamun.

At the beginning of the programme, the invited guests were welcomed with flowers and ceremonial scarves, while recitation from the Gita was also held.

Local public representatives, leaders of the Hindu community, distinguished citizens and a large number of devotees attended the event.

The chief whip concluded the programme by wishing the historic Sri Sri Jashomadhab Rath Yatra every success.