Christian community in Bangladesh forms human chain demanding public holiday for Easter Sunday

Leaders and members of the Christian community, under the banner of the Bangladesh Christian Association, formed the human chain in front of the National Press Club at 11 am. Priests and representatives of Christian organisations also participated. Speakers said Easter, the most significant day in the Christian calendar, continues to fall on a regular working day in Bangladesh. As a result, many are forced to manage religious observance alongside work commitments. The programme was chaired by the association’s president, Nirmal Rozario. Speaking at the event, Rozario said, “Easter Sunday is one of the most significant days in the Christian faith. When it remains a working day, many people are forced to choose between their religious obligations and professional responsibilities, which does not align with the principles of an inclusive state.” “This is not a one-off concern. It comes up every year,” said Hemanta I. Corraya, general secretary of the association, adding that repeated appeals to the authorities have yet to produce a policy decision. Father Albert T. Rozario of the Dhaka Archbishop’s House said the impact is visible at the parish level, where attendance is affected by work schedules. “The main observances take place on Sunday, but for many, full participation is not always possible under current conditions,” he said. Community representatives said they are seeking both immediate and long-term responses. They called for a one-day holiday by executive order for this year’s Easter on April 5 and for its inclusion in the annual list of public holidays. Manju Maria Palma, secretary of Dhaka Credit, said the issue also relates to access. “For many in formal employment, taking leave is not always straightforward,” she said. Organizers said they submitted a formal request to the Prime Minister’s Office on March 30, outlining the same demands.