Foreign minister AK Abdul Momen yesterday said India’s historical position as a secular state would be weakened if the country deviates from its original stand. He also said that there is no religious persecution in Bangladesh as claimed by India. He also claimed the existence of religious harmony in the country.

The minister was talking to journalists at his office after holding talks with the US ambassador to Bangladesh, Earl R Miller. The minister said the US has also expressed its concern about the recent amendment to India’s citizenship bill on the religious line. “The US ambassador said that India had weakened its position by doing so. The US believes in the freedom of religion,” the minister said having quoted Miller.

In reply to a query, Momen said: “Historically, India is a land of tolerance. They believe in secularism. I think India’s historical position would be weakened if it deviates from that position.” “We are being alleged of several things which are not true. Religious harmony in our country is strong. Religion is for individuals, while festivals are for all. Persons belonging to other religions do not face any persecution in our country,” he added.

He also said persons belonging to different religions are holding important posts in government and are taking part in important decision-making. “We are respectful of all religions. We look upon all as the citizens of Bangladesh irrespective of their religious backgrounds,” he added.  “India is claiming that people of other religions are facing persecution here, but that’s not true. The minorities of Bangladesh can issue a statement against India’s allegation of persecution,” said Momen.  

“India is our friendly country. At present, the relations between the two countries have reached a new height of maturity. We hope India would not do anything that may seem worrying for the people of Bangladesh,” he added.