Anything stirring controversy will be avoided

RAJSHAHI, Sept 07: Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain has assured that the interim government would not engage in any actions that could trigger controversy, specifically regarding the national anthem.
"Chief Adviser has said we will not touch anything that can create controversy. So there are no thoughts of changing the national anthem. Rather, we will hand over power to the party selected through a fair election and depart," said Mr Khalid.
He said these while talking to the journalists on the Rajshahi Islamic Foundation premises on Saturday noon.
The religious affairs adviser said, "Currently, we are prioritising law and order
the most. We do not want to do anything at this moment that might create any controversy. We want to build a beautiful Bangladesh with everyone."
Referring to the attacks on religious institutions as isolated incidents, he said that attacking mosques, temples and shrines was a very heinous act. Those who attack places of worship are enemies of humanity.
"Places of worship, including those of minority communities, have been sporadically attacked in the country to achieve political ends. Action will be taken against the attackers according to the law. For the sake of security, the temples will be guarded by engaging local people as well as madrasa students," he assured.
"Madrasa students have never been involved in any kind of extremism. This is a conspiracy and false propaganda by the previous government," he said.
"The victory that came through the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, after that it is being said in the foreign media - here traditional religion, Buddhism - the houses and places of worship of people of these religions are being attacked. I will not say that the attack did not happen at all. But it's quite scattered. It doesn't matter much," he added.
Stating that there is a plan to reduce the price of the Hajj package, the religious adviser said, "I will meet the Saudi Minister of Hajj this month. I am trying my best to announce an acceptable package to the people by reducing the amount."
Replying to a question about the news of the Hindu Mahasabha's threat of attack on the Bangladesh cricket team, Mr Khalid said, "As a neighbouring country, we want a friendly relationship with India. We have heard about the threat on our cricket team in India. Since Bangladesh Cricket Board is there, they will decide on the course of action."
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