He made the remarks on Friday (October 16) while distributing donations from his personal fund among 65 Durga Puja mandaps in Shibganj and Mokamtola areas of Bogura. The programme began at around 10:30 am.
Shahe Alam said many people previously believed that members of the Hindu community supported a particular political party or organisation. However, he said, strong support for the Sheaf of Paddy in Hindu-majority polling centres in his constituency during the last election demonstrated their independent political choices.
He also said the Hindu community had shown its connection with the Bangladeshi nationalism ideology of former president Ziaur Rahman. He claimed that the government had extended the Durga Puja holiday under its executive authority to help the community celebrate the festival with greater joy.
Criticising the opposition, the state minister alleged that the 11-party alliance had secured votes from a section of voters by promising them a place in heaven. He urged the opposition to play its proper role by highlighting government shortcomings, engaging in constructive parliamentary discussions and cooperating in national development.
Shahe Alam said the government led by Tarique Rahman had no plans to come to power through uncontested elections or night-time voting. Instead, he said, the government wanted to return to power through public votes. He cited initiatives such as family cards, farmers' cards, salaries for imams and muezzins, healthcare services, tree plantation, canal excavation and sports programmes.
The state minister expressed hope that significant progress would be made over the next three to four years in electricity and gas supply, road and infrastructure development, job creation and overseas employment opportunities for skilled workers.
He said the government would seek public support again after five years, adding that it would form the government if elected by the people and serve as the opposition otherwise.
The programme was chaired by Shibganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ziaur Rahman and attended by local BNP leaders and representatives of the Puja Celebration Council. After the event, Shahe Alam distributed sarees among Hindu women at the Uthali High School playground in Shibganj upazila.
