Democracy risks turning into a mere numbers game if minority rights and political representation are not ensured, speakers said at a seminar held at the CIRDAP Auditorium in Dhaka today.
The seminar, titled “Democracy for All: Minority Rights, Representation and National Elections,” was organised by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS).
Representatives from different religious and ethnic communities emphasised that inclusive democracy is impossible without genuine political will and accountability.
Human rights activist Khushi Kabir said democracy should guarantee equal opportunities for all, but the current model is confined to power, money and majority dominance.
She said, “The Awami League’s 2008 manifesto mentioned indigenous peoples, but the issue was deliberately sidelined after the party came to power. The government avoids using the term ‘indigenous’ to escape international obligations under United Nations conventions.”
Khushi also alleged that political parties routinely violate the requirement of minimum female representation.
Pallab Chakma, representing the Chattogram Hill Tracts, said minority lawmakers elected under the Awami League banner failed to raise indigenous concerns effectively in parliament.
He urged parties to move beyond rhetoric and implement commitments, citing the BNP’s 31-point reform outline.
Nirmal Rozario, president of the Bangladesh Hindu Bouddha Christian Oikya Parishad, warned that humanity is increasingly threatened by vote-centric politics.
Manindra Kumar Nath, acting general secretary of the Oikya Parishad, said oppression of minorities has continued since 1971, adding that the government lacks the mindset to address minority rights.
Sukomal Barua, adviser to the BNP chairperson, said divisions and political polarisation undermine rights-based movements, urging broader dialogue among political thinkers, diplomats and leaders.
Basudeb Dhar, president of the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, said Hindus have long voted based on trust rather than party loyalty, warning that collapse of trust would strike at the foundation of the political system.
He criticised minority representatives in parliament for echoing party lines instead of advocating for their communities.
Sanjib Drong, general secretary of the Adivasi Forum, said rights are fundamental, not privileges, but election promises on minority inclusion remain unfulfilled.
CGS President Zilur Rahman urged that democracy must ensure minority voices are heard and valued.
"With the 2026 election approaching, the definition of democracy is now being viewed in a new way. Will the election be for everyone? Will minorities be able to vote safely? Will there be representation for all -- these questions remain,” he said.
