Dhaka, Aug 16: In an unprecedented gesture of unity, the chiefs of Bangladesh’s army, navy, and air force jointly attended Janmashtami celebrations in Dhaka on Saturday, vowing to safeguard all religious communities and uphold the country’s pluralist values.
Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, speaking at the central festival procession near the historic Dhakeshwari temple, told devotees that Bangladesh belonged equally to everyone, regardless of religion or ethnicity. “You will live here without fear. We will always stand by your side,” he said, drawing applause from the gathering.
General Zaman was joined by Navy Chief Admiral M. Nazmul Hassan and Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan. Their presence at the Hindu festival was described by local media as an extraordinary show of solidarity, welcomed by community leaders amid concerns of communal tensions since the appointment of interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus last year.
Admiral Hassan framed Janmashtami as a celebration of justice and harmony, while Air Chief Marshal Khan recalled his own childhood growing up alongside Hindu and Christian friends in Old Dhaka. “That unity must be preserved—it is vital for peace and progress,” he said.
The chiefs pledged continued protection for minority communities and assured that security forces would guarantee the safety of all religious festivals. Earlier, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus extended greetings to the Hindu community, expressing hope that Lord Krishna’s teachings would reinforce goodwill and brotherhood in Bangladesh.