Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin, State Minister for Land and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs, has expressed his commitment to transforming Hathazari into an exemplary model of communal harmony and goodwill by ensuring equal rights and opportunities for people of all religions and communities.

He said everyone must work together to eliminate all forms of injustice and neglect and establish a peaceful, harmonious and inclusive society.

He made the remarks while addressing the annual Kathina Chibar Dana ceremony as the chief guest at Mirzapur Buddhist Monastery in Hathazari, Chattogram, yesterday.

The State Minister said the current democratic government, elected through the direct votes of the people, was working to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all citizens, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or community. At the same time, improving the living standards of disadvantaged sections of society was also being given priority.

He said everyone should promote the message of peace taught by their respective religions to establish social harmony, equality and prosperity. He also urged people to remain vigilant and raise their voices against anyone attempting to incite violence or create disorder.

The State Minister further said the Prime Minister had entrusted him with the responsibilities of two important ministries to serve the people.

He added that the people of his constituency had honoured him with their trust and mandate by electing him to Parliament with a victory margin of more than 100,000 votes, and that all credit for this achievement belonged to them.

He said that within just six months of assuming office, the Prime Minister had visited Hathazari, listened to the needs and concerns of local residents and already addressed many of their demands.

Noting that the government was implementing development activities equally across religious institutions throughout the country, the State Minister said allocations for their development were continuing in accordance with established criteria.

Speaking about the development of his birthplace, Hathazari, Mir Helal said he had always given serious consideration to alleviating the suffering of local residents and ensuring the overall development of the area.

He sought everyone’s cooperation in maintaining the momentum of development, promoting humanitarian values in society and working collectively for the welfare of the country.

Buddhist monks, male and female devotees, and volunteers from the Buddhist community attended the ceremony.