Bangladesh must ensure equal rights, dignity and respect for all communities, regardless of ethnicity, religion or place of residence, Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury has said.

Speaking at a cultural program marking Maha Wa Gwai Poi in Bandarban yesterday, he said the country’s diverse ethnic identities, heritage and traditions were vital to its national identity. "There should be no distinction between people living in the hills and those on the plains. Bangladesh's diverse ethnic identities, history, heritage and vibrant cultures are among the greatest strengths of our national identity," he said.

According to BSS, the Bandarban Municipality Festival Celebration Committee organized the event to celebrate the traditional festival observed by the Marma community and other Buddhist indigenous groups in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Nitai Roy stressed that people living in the hills and plains should not be treated differently, adding that every community was an integral part of Bangladesh. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equality and the constitutional rights of all citizens.

Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Sa Ching Prue, attending as a special guest, said the government was working to promote peace, communal harmony and inclusive development in the hill districts.

He said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman was committed to preserving indigenous languages and cultures while expanding access to modern education and improving living standards.

Sa Ching Prue also announced plans for a major program in the hill districts in December-January to promote the government’s vision of a “Rainbow Nation”, centred on equal rights, fraternity and peaceful coexistence.

State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam also attended the program.

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