Following a decisive electoral victory, Tarique Rahman has taken oath as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, leading a new government formed by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Among the 50 ministers sworn in, Nitai Roy, the only Hindu minister in the cabinet and a vice president of the BNP central committee, has outlined the administration’s approach toward minority rights and regional diplomacy.
Speaking after the swearing-in ceremony, Nitai Roy emphasized that the new government is committed to ensuring the safety and equal rights of all minorities in Bangladesh. He stated that the administration would not allow extremism to take root and would work to strengthen communal harmony across the country.
Roy, who won from the Magura-2 constituency, said the government’s focus is on restoring institutional stability and rebuilding systems that he claims were weakened under the previous administration led by Sheikh Hasina. In an interview, he alleged that key sectors, particularly education, had suffered significant setbacks and would require urgent reforms.
He further stated that the BNP government aims to move forward with a development-oriented agenda rather than remain focused on political blame. According to him, the new leadership seeks to rebuild foundational pillars of governance while upholding the principle of unity in diversity.
Addressing concerns about the safety of Hindus and other minority communities, Roy said that minorities are an integral part of Bangladesh and should not be viewed merely as vote banks. He noted that party leaders had met Hindu voters before the elections and assured them of constitutional protection and equal rights. He expressed gratitude for the support received from minority voters during the elections.
On foreign policy, particularly relations with India, Roy said that fostering positive and respectful ties with neighboring countries is a priority for the new government. He added that Bangladesh intends to work closely with India on matters related to mutual security and cooperation.
As Culture Minister, Roy also highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural ties. He stated that Bangladesh shares cultural relations with at least 48 countries, including India, and that the government will promote traditional values while countering radical influences.
The new administration has signaled that minority protection, institutional reforms, and balanced diplomatic relations will be key components of its governance strategy in the coming term.
