'We're a broader family': Yunus visits Dhakeshwar temple; assures Hindus of equal rights ahead of Durga Puja

Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser to Bangladesh's interim administration, on Tuesday visited the Dhakeshwar temple to oversee preparations for the upcoming Durga Puja. He also greeted members of the Hindu minority population there.

Yunus walked around the temple grounds and checked on the work that was being done to get ready for the annual Hindu religious celebration that starts next week, according to the state-run BSS news agency.

"Whatever faith or ideology one follows, whether rich or poor, every person is first and foremost a citizen. All rights of citizens are guaranteed in the Constitution," he said.

"We, the entire nation, are a broader family. The government is committed to ensuring equal rights and dignity for all citizens," Yunus told The Daily Star newspaper.

Following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina government in August last year, there have been numerous attacks against Hindus and their places of worship, raising widespread fears. The interim chief's greetings came amid these concerns.

Yunus stated that the "most important goal of the new Bangladesh is to ensure equal rights for all citizens."

He emphasised the importance of creating a nation in which people can celebrate their religious holidays without the need for additional security.

Yunus went on to say that he did not want to be "deprived of this joy this year" because he would be overseas for the Durga Puja celebrations.

"That's why I came here earlier to share the happiness with you," he said.