‘Indigenous identity and Bangladeshi citizenship are not mutually exclusive’

44 eminent citizens protest ministers’ remarks 1 MIN(s) UPDATED 1 MIN(s) Star Online Report File Photo: PRABIR DAS/STAR Forty-four eminent citizens have protested recent remarks by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, regarding indigenous communities in Bangladesh.In a joint statement issued on August 18, the civil society representatives termed the remarks contradictory to the constitution as well as international and state laws, and demanded immediate withdrawal of the remarks.They said such misleading and unwarranted comments from people holding responsible positions not only threaten the distinct identity and recognised rights of indigenous groups, but also risk undermining the country’s image, dignity and credibility in the inter