Members of Bangladesh’s Christian community formed a human chain in the capital on Tuesday, calling on the government to declare Easter Sunday a public holiday, arguing that its absence from the official calendar disrupts religious observance each year.
The demonstration, organised by the Bangladesh Christian Association, was held in front of the National Press Club around 11:00am. Community leaders, clergy and representatives from various Christian organisations joined the programme.
Speakers said Easter, the most important event in the Christian calendar, continues to fall on a regular working day in Bangladesh, forcing many to balance religious duties with professional responsibilities. The event was chaired by the association’s president, Nirmal Rozario.
“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,” he said.
Echoing the concern, the association’s general secretary Hemanta I Corraya noted that the issue resurfaces every year despite repeated appeals to the authorities.
“This is not a one-off concern. It comes up every year,” he said, adding that no policy decision has yet been taken.
Father Albert T Rozario of the Dhaka Archbishop’s House said the impact is clearly visible at the parish level, where attendance at services 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 measures. They called for a one-day holiday by executive order for this year’s Easter Sunday, which falls on April 5, and for its permanent inclusion in the national list of public holidays.
Manju Maria Palma, secretary of Dhaka Credit, said the issue is also linked to accessibility, particularly for those in formal employment.
“For many, taking leave is not always straightforward,” she said.
Organisers added that a formal petition outlining these demands was submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office on March 30.