Interfaith dialogue to be held at different levels : state minister

State minister for Religious Affairs Md Faridul Haque Khan yesterday called upon all to exercise restraint from using provocative statements.

Regarding the recent protests from religious groups against sculptures, he said there is a misunderstanding centering the issue, but it can be solved through discussion.

The state minister made the remarks while exchanging views with leaders of Religious Reporters Forum (RRF), a platform of journalists covering news on Islamic parties, hajj and religious affairs ministry at his office in the Secretariat.

He said inter-religious dialogue would be organised at different levels of society with representatives of all religious communities to maintain communal harmony.

In reply to a question, the state minister said the government's ongoing anti-militancy and anti-terrorism activities will continue.

On a different topic, Faridul Haque Khan said it has not been decided yet to perform Umrah Hajj from Bangladesh. "Even if the decision is made, people will be able to perform Umrah hajj on a limited scale," he said.

The state minister said digital Hajj management, increase in the number of pilgrims, hassle-free Hajj management, completing immigration formalities of pilgrims in Bangladesh and going to Saudi Arabia for performing hajj have become easier and safer.

"That will be made more dynamic," he hoped.

Saying that the Islamic Foundation is constructing a total of 560 model mosques and Islamic culture centers at district and upazila levels, he said the activities undertaken by the government for the welfare of Hindu, Buddhist and Christian communities would be further enhanced.

The state minister sought cooperation and constructive advice of journalists as a bridge to convey the aspirations of the people to the government and to inform the people about the activities and services of the government.