"We don’t want a country where people celebrate religious festivals under heavy security. We want a society where everyone can freely practice their faith," he said during a visit to Dhakeshwari National Temple on Tuesday (September 16).
Dr. Yunus warned that national unity is crucial: "If we remain divided, we will fail as a nation — and we do not want to fail."
He stressed that the state must remain neutral in religious matters: "No matter how different our religions are, the state cannot show bias. It must treat all religions with equal dignity."
The Chief Adviser further expressed his vision of creating a Bangladesh that others around the world will look up to. "To achieve the goals we’ve set for July, people of all faiths must work together," he added.
Earlier, on Monday afternoon, leaders of various Puja Celebration Councils met with Dr. Yunus at the state guest house, Jamuna, and invited him to visit Puja mandaps during the upcoming Durga Puja festival.
Dr. Yunus said he looks forward to such meetings, which provide an opportunity for direct dialogue. He also inquired about preparations and security measures for the festival.