(BSS) - Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said those who do not know how to embrace diversity of ethnicity, religions and languages or who try to forcibly create division here, are anti-state elements.

“Just as every organ of the body is indispensable, our motherland is formed through the combination of the diverse ethnic communities, religions, and language groups. Embracing this diversity is the true form of patriotism,” he said.

He made the remarks at the “Biju, Boisuk, Sangrai, Bisu, and Changkran Post-Festival Reunion and Reception 2026” held at the Chittagong Hill Tracts Complex on Bailey Road in the capital.
The discussion meeting and social gathering were organized to honor the newly elected public representatives from the CHT region.

Remembering the contribution of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the minister said Ziaur Rahman had established the concept of civic-based nationalism through “Bangladeshi nationalism,” where people of all languages, races, and ethnic identities receive equal dignity as citizens of Bangladesh.

He further said that after returning to the country, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman clearly declared equal rights for citizens from both the hills and the plains. This declaration by the government will serve as a key foundation for future practices of citizens’ rights, he mentioned.

Addressing the newly elected MPs, the minister said laws and regulations must be enacted to ensure the participation of all minority ethnic groups in state facilities and opportunities for the sake of national unity.

CHT Welfare Society President Major (retd) Tapan Bikash Chakma chaired the event while CHT lawmakers Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan, Abdul Wadud Bhuiyan, Saching Pru Jerry MP and Madhabi Marma were honored on the occasion.

Prime Minister’s Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Ethnic Affairs Special Assistant Bijon Kanti Sarkar was also present.

The event concluded with a cultural ceremony.