Bangladesh Army chief Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman has urged Hindus to attend Durga Puja celebrations and visit Puja pavilions without fear, assuring them of adequate security.

While inspecting security measures at Dhakeshwari National Temple ahead of Durga Puja celebrations on Saturday, he said Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians have coexisted peacefully in the country for centuries. Everyone has rights, and everyone should practice their religion freely.

“Everyone has the right to practise their religion. You can attend the mandaps without fear, perform Puja, and celebrate this festival joyfully,” he added.

The army has been deployed across regions of Bangladesh to ensure safety, he said, emphasising that Hindus should feel secure in celebrating their festival.

“I have given specific instructions to maintain a peaceful environment. Our goal is to allow everyone to celebrate their festival in harmony,” Waker said.

The army chief also interacted with the organisers of the Dhakeshwari Temple Puja and pavilion during his visit, the Inter-Services Public Relations, or ISPR, said in a press release.

According to the statement, Waker met the president of the Metropolitan Sarbojanin Puja Committee and the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, among others.

He said that troops have been mobilised in every district to ensure the safety in Puja pavilions.

The army chief also extended greetings to the Hindu community.