Bangladesh Armed Forces Chiefs join Janmashtami celebrations, reaffirm protection for all faiths

Bangladesh's Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman

In a rare show of unity, the chiefs of Bangladesh’s three armed forces jointly took part in Janmashtami celebrations in Dhaka, pledging protection for all religious communities.

Speaking at the central festival and procession at Palashi intersection on Saturday, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said, “This country belongs to everyone. There will be no division based on religion, ethnicity, or community. You will live here without fear. We will always stand by your side.”

His remarks, originally delivered in Bangla, came from the premises of the historic Dhakeshwari temple—a symbolic space for the Hindu community.

General Zaman, joined by Navy Chief Admiral M. Nazmul Hassan and Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, attended the event alongside Major General Md Moin Khan, GOC of the 9th Infantry Division.

Local media described their unified presence as an unprecedented gesture welcomed by Hindu leaders, particularly against the backdrop of reported incidents of violence following the appointment of interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus last year.

General Zaman framed the military’s role as safeguarding Bangladesh’s pluralist identity. “Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, hill people, and Bengalis have all lived together in peace for centuries. Whatever support you seek from us, Insha’Allah, we will provide it,” he said.

Admiral Hassan echoed the sentiment, stressing that Janmashtami was not just a religious occasion but a call for “peace, harmony, and humanity.” Drawing on Lord Krishna’s teachings, he highlighted the values of justice, equality, and solidarity with the oppressed. “The world should see this procession as proof that Bangladesh is a land of harmony,” he said, affirming that security forces would ensure the safety of all religious events.

Air Chief Marshal Khan added a personal note, recalling his childhood in Old Dhaka near the Joykali temple. “I grew up with Hindu and Christian friends. Since childhood, we never discriminated based on religion. That unity must be preserved—it is vital for peace and progress,” he said.

Earlier, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus extended Janmashtami greetings to the Hindu community, expressing hope that the teachings of Lord Krishna would strengthen goodwill and brotherhood while upholding Bangladesh’s communal harmony.