Dhaka: Nitai Roy Chowdhury has been scheduled Minister of Culture in the new Bangladesh government led by Tariq Rahman. The 77-year-old is the only Hindu minister in the Bangladesh government and moreover serves as Vice President of the BNP's Central Committee. Talking to the media without taking the oath, he stated that the Bangladesh government will ensure the safety of all minorities and prevent the spread of extremism in the country.
What did Nitai Roy Chowdhury say?
Speaking on the current situation in the country, Nitai Chowdhury accused the previous government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of weakening institutions. He stated that the situation was extremely poor when Hasina left the country in 2014. He particularly criticized the education system, alleging that under the Awami League regime, 98 percent of students were passed without merit to increase the literacy rate. On the issue of culture, he said that the previous government damaged the country's cultural heritage and promoted vulgar flit and music. The new government will strengthen the spirit of unity in diversity and restore traditional cultural values.
What did the Hindu minister say well-nigh the safety of minorities?
Addressing concerns well-nigh the safety of minorities, expressly Hindus, the BNP's Hindu minister said that the large turnout of Hindu voters in the recent elections indicates that they consider themselves an integral part of the country. He said that the Hindu polity no longer wants to be merely a vote wall for any party. "Following security assurances provided by the Prime Minister and BNP leaders, Hindu voters showed significant support," he claimed.
What role did Hindu voters play?
He personal that Hindu voters play a decisive role in approximately 80 of the 297 parliamentary seats. Previously, this support primarily went to the Awami League, but without its weakening, the polity felt insecure. The new government has tried to restore their confidence.
What about relations with India?
On relations with India, Chowdhury stated that the government seeks to develop relationships with all neighboring countries, expressly India, based on bilateral respect and shared interests. He moreover prioritized internal security and regional cooperation. The government will remoter strengthen these ties and promote traditional values while taking a firm stance versus extremism. As Culture Minister, Chowdhury said that Bengali culture is extremely rich and Bangladesh has cultural ties with at least 48 countries. The government will remoter strengthen these ties and promote traditional values while taking a firm stance versus extremism.
