DHAKA, June 24 — Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said the government will place the highest priority on protecting the constitutional rights and welfare of ethnic minorities, indigenous communities and religious minority groups across the country.

The minister made the remarks during a courtesy meeting and discussion with a delegation from the Sitakunda Shrine Committee at his office at the Secretariat on Wednesday.

Prime Minister's Special Assistant and Chairman of the Bangladesh Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Welfare Front, Bijon Kanti Sarkar, was also present at the meeting.

"The government is committed to ensuring equal rights for all citizens regardless of their religion, ethnicity or social background," the minister said. "Necessary measures will be taken to safeguard the constitutional rights and welfare of all communities."

He emphasized that ensuring equal participation of people from all communities in the country's development process remains a key objective of the government.

The minister also alleged that certain groups have long attempted to portray the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) as a political force opposed to minorities and religious communities.

"Such claims do not reflect reality," he said. "Historically, the BNP has played a responsible role in protecting the rights, security and dignity of people belonging to all faiths and communities."

Describing Bangladesh as a country of communal harmony, Mirza Fakhrul said people of different religious and ethnic backgrounds have lived together peacefully for generations based on mutual respect, tolerance and social cohesion.

"It is the responsibility of the government to ensure the religious freedom and constitutional rights of all citizens, and we are determined to fulfill that responsibility," he added.

During the meeting, leaders of the Sitakunda Shrine Committee highlighted various challenges faced by devotees visiting the historic Chandranath Dham pilgrimage site in Chattogram.

They noted that thousands of pilgrims from different parts of Bangladesh and abroad visit the shrine each year for religious observances and pilgrimage activities. However, inadequate infrastructure and transportation facilities often cause significant inconvenience to visitors.

After listening to the concerns, the minister instructed relevant officials to take necessary measures to address the issues. He directed authorities to expedite initiatives related to the construction and renovation of stairways leading to Chandranath Dham, improvement of temple facilities and enhancement of surrounding infrastructure.

The minister said the development of religious and historical sites is important not only from a religious perspective but also for promoting tourism, supporting local economies and preserving cultural heritage.

"Taking into account public demand and practical needs, the government will continue to play a positive role in developing such sites," he said.

Among others present at the meeting were Local Government Division Secretary Md. Shahidul Hasan, Major General (Retd.) Jiban Kanai and senior officials of the ministry.