Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu on Friday said the Historical Sindurmati Fair in Lalmonirhat stands as a shining example of communal harmony in Bangladesh, inspiring the nation to move forward.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting after inaugurating the fair at Sindurmati Dighi in Panchgram union of Sadar upazila around 11:30am.

The minister said the spontaneous participation of people from different religious communities, alongside followers of Sanatan Dharma, has strengthened bonds of mutual respect, cooperation and love. “This spirit of harmony is the key driving force behind the country’s progress,” he added.

Dulu also warned that a vested quarter is trying to spread misinformation on social media to create instability, urging all concerned to refrain from such provocative activities.

Highlighting development initiatives, he said the Sindurmati area had seen little progress in the past, but the current government has taken steps to improve infrastructure, strengthen security and ensure better facilities for visitors centring the religious site. Ongoing development works are already underway, he added.

The minister further said that government land in Sindurmati will be freed from encroachment and efforts will continue to enhance the beauty of the temple and surrounding areas while improving the religious environment.

Calling for unity beyond differences, he said, “Only through collective efforts driven by patriotism can the country move forward.”

Every year, on the ninth day of the Chaitra month, devotees take a holy dip in Sindurmati Dighi. Marking the occasion, a large fair is held, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the country to the festive venue near the Rajarhat upazila border in Kurigram.

Among others, Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate HM Rakib Haidar, Superintendent of Police Md Asaduzzaman, Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Manonita Das, and local political leaders were present at the event.