Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon emphasized that the philosophy of Bangladeshi nationalism signifies an inclusive national identity, encompassing all languages, religions, cultures, ethnic groups, and communities within the country. The minister articulated that this philosophy acknowledges every citizen residing within Bangladesh’s geographical boundaries as an integral part of the national identity.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Minister Swapon made these remarks while addressing a seminar titled ‘Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and Bangladeshi Nationalism’ at Jagannath University, where he was the chief guest. The event was organized by the Jagannath University chapter of the University Teachers’ Association of Bangladesh (UTAB).
Swapon highlighted that while Pakistan was originally founded on the basis of religion, historical events such as the 1952 Language Movement and the 1971 Liberation War demonstrated that religion alone could not sustain the unity of a diverse state. He praised former president Ziaur Rahman’s leadership and his declaration of independence, which played a crucial role in organizing resistance during the early days of the Liberation War.
The minister elaborated that post-independence, debates regarding national identity emerged, as a language-based identity was not universally accepted. In response, Shaheed president Ziaur Rahman introduced the concept of citizen-based Bangladeshi nationalism to unite every citizen under a common national identity with equal dignity.
Swapon stressed that under the identity of being Bangladeshi, every citizen enjoys equal dignity and rights, regardless of language, religion, or ethnic community. He asserted that this inclusive philosophy has fortified the country’s territorial integrity, national unity, and pluralistic social order.
He further stated that nationalism in today’s world is defined not only by language, religion, or ethnicity but also by shared interests, territory, constitutional commitments, and aspirations for a common future. He noted that Bangladeshi nationalism embodies this modern concept of nationhood.
The minister concluded that there is no room for denying one language or culture to promote another, as Bangladeshi nationalism has evolved by respecting and embracing the country’s diverse languages, cultures, religious beliefs, and ethnic identities. He affirmed that this philosophy will continue to serve as a foundation for national unity and guide Bangladesh’s future development.
Dhaka-7 MP Hamidur Rahman Hamid attended the program as a special guest, while Jagannath University Vice-Chancellor Prof Md Rais Uddin delivered the keynote address.