No govt can deprive citizens of basic rights: CA

Extending advance Durga Puja greetings, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday said no government has the right to deny citizens their fundamental constitutional rights.

“We - the entire nation is a broader family. The government is committed to ensuring equal rights and dignity for all citizens,” he said, emphasising the importance of unity to defeat evil forces.

Prof Yunus made the remarks while visiting Dhakeshwari National Temple to witness the preparations for the upcoming Durga Puja. He exchanged greetings with members of the Hindu community there, reports UNB.

The chief adviser, who is scheduled to reach New York on September 22 to attend the UN General Assembly, said the visit gave him peace of mind before his departure from Dhaka as he will not be in Dhaka during the Puja celebration.

"Now I can head towards UNGA with peace in mind. We are citizens of this country, and there will be no discrimination against anyone,” he said.

Prof Yunus also urged all citizens to remain aware of their rights. “Keep reminding you that you are a citizen of this country, and you must be given the rights and dignity guaranteed by the Constitution.”

He expressed optimism that Bangladesh would continue to march toward progress and prosperity through unity.

Prof Yunus noted that he initially feared missing the joy of Durga Puja celebrations as he would be abroad during the festival. “I didn’t want to be deprived of this joy, so I came here today,” he said.