No differences of religion or caste, our main identity is that we are Bangladeshis: Food Minister

She said these things as the chief guest at an event organized at the Shree Shree Ananda Mayee Kalibari premises in Manikganj Sadar upazila on the occasion of Shubho Janmashtami 2026.

The food minister said Sanatan religionists stood by her in the past as they did, and she expects their cooperation in the future as well. Afroza Khanam promised to remain by their side if called upon in times of sorrow, even if not called in times of happiness.

Noting that there is beautiful communal harmony among Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and Christians in Manikganj, she said this harmony must be maintained unitedly by everyone. She also remarked that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman views all people of the country equally.

At the event, the food minister donated one lakh taka to the Shree Shree Ananda Mayee Kalibari Puja Celebration Committee. She also instructed the district administrator to take necessary measures regarding various demands of Sanatan religionists.

The event was attended by Pranab Kumar Sikder, president of the Manikganj district unit of Bangladesh Puja Celebration Council, along with people from different walks of life. Later, the food minister also took part in a tree plantation programme with party leaders and activists at Beutha Mosque premises and beside the road on the occasion of the 48th founding anniversary of BNP.