Political trend, financial despotism reasons

The current political situation and financial despotism are hindering harmonious coexistence in the country leading to social violence, said eminent citizens at a roundtable yesterday.

If a harmonious coexistence could be achieved then disputes arising from people belonging to different religions, caste, race and gender would be less, they added. The programme titled "What Must We Do to Achieve Social Harmony" was organised by The Hunger Project and The Diversity Centre at The Daily Star Centre in the capital.

Dr Akbar Ali Khan, former adviser to a caretaker government, said stories of social harmony achieved at grassroots level should be spread in the society.        

Eminent columnist Syed Abul Maksud said politics, rather than religion or race, was more responsible for conflicts and social disharmony prevailing in the country. 

Badiul Alam Majumdar, global vice-president and country director of The Hunger Project, said prejudice based on identities is also a major reason for conflicts in the country. Abdul Muyeed Chowdhury, former advisor to a caretaker government; Haminda Hossain, a human rights activist; and Rana Dasgupta, secretary of Bangladesh Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian Unity Council also spoke.