Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser of the Interim Government Shafiqul Alam, has said that a strong wave of public opinion in favor of the "Yes" vote is evident across the country in the upcoming referendum.
He said: "People understand that a ‘Yes’ vote will ensure that autocracy, misrule, and oppression do not return to the country. Citizens’ rights will be protected, and a just system of governance will be established.”
He made these remarks on Friday morning while speaking to journalists after visiting the shrine of Buchai Pagla in the Batulia area of Sanora Union, Dhamrai Upazila, Dhaka. Prior to speaking with the media, he participated in prayers at the shrine.
Shafiqul Alam further said: “We believe that a nationwide momentum has developed in favor of the ‘Yes’ vote. People have realized that voting ‘Yes’ will ensure the safety of money deposited in banks, guarantee the security of their families, and guide the state along a path where citizens’ rights are preserved and upheld.”
He added that the Election Commission has repeatedly assured that there will be no problems in conducting the voting process, although vote counting may take some time. He urged the public to remain calm and patient while participating in the electoral process.
Regarding the Buchai Pagla shrine, the press secretary noted: "This is not merely a religious site; it is also a symbol of communal harmony. Every year in February, a popular Baul music fair is held here, where renowned Baul artists from across the country perform. The fair organized on the adjacent field is an important example of Bangladesh’s pluralistic cultural heritage.”
He further said: “Bangladesh is a land of saints and spiritual leaders. Islam reached this region through them. Attacking shrines is a highly condemnable act. If someone does not favor such places, they may choose not to visit them, but violence or vandalism is never acceptable.”
It may be recalled that on September 11, 2024, a group of individuals vandalized the Buchai Pagla shrine. In connection with the incident, Dhaka District Senior Assistant Judge Mohammad Junaid directed Dhamrai Police Station to file a case.
Subsequently, the police filed a case naming two accused individuals. However, no arrests have been made so far. The shrine has recently been renovated under the supervision of the authorities.
On the issue of journalists’ safety, the press secretary said: “Any form of attack on journalists must be condemned. Ensuring the safety of journalists is not only the responsibility of the government but also of political parties and all citizens.”
He expressed hope that journalists would be able to cover the upcoming election fairly and impartially.
During the shrine visit, the Press Secretary was accompanied by Dhamrai Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Khan Mohammad Salman Habib, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Ridwan Ahmed Rafi, and members of Dhamrai Police Station.
