The government has been working for the welfare of the people of all religious faiths in the country, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said today.

"We've been establishing Bangladesh as a non-communal country. Here all people have equal rights," she said.

The prime minister was exchanging Christmas greetings with leaders of the Christian community during a function at the Bangladesh Agriculture Research Council in the capital's Farmgate.

She joined the function virtually from her office.

She greeted all the people of the Christian community of the country on the occasion of Christmas, to be celebrated on Sunday.

Hasina said Bangladesh is not a country of people from a single religious faith; it is a land of people of all religions.

"We work for the wellbeing of all religious faiths," she said, adding that her government has always stood by all the people during any problem.

"We believe that we've to work for all people in the country," she said.

In this context, she mentioned the measures taken by the Awami League government for the welfare of the transgender community and other disadvantaged communities.

"We've secured their [Hijras'] rights in the Constitution," she said, adding that Islam as a religion has also ensured the rights of transgender people.

She said transgender people are being recognised as "third gender" in each case, such as in jobs, in all forms and on identity cards.

"We've given them recognition," she added.

The PM said if she sees any particular community lagging behind, she would bring them forward and ensure education, jobs, livelihood and other facilities for them.

"This is our Bangladesh of non-communal spirit. We want to build it," she said.

Referring to the mosque-based education, she said the Awami League government has arranged the same education based in Hindu temples, churches and other places of worship.

"I want all of you to live in this country with your own rights... Bangabandhu made this country independent, and all people will enjoy its benefits," said the PM.