Thousands of minorities have been ousted from their homes and still they could not return to their houses due to persecution by the ruling party men, she said.

Hasina, also the Awami League president, was speaking with the leaders of Bangladesh Christian Association as they met her at her Sudha Sadan residence in the city on the occasion of the Christmas Day.

More than 50 members of the association led by its President Promod Mankin MP and Secretary General Nirmal Rozario met the leader of the opposition. Archbishop of Dhaka Paulinus Costa was also present.

The AL chief called for fighting against all forms of repression, misrule and misdeeds unitedly with a view to establishing human rights.

She also urged the people of all walks of life to be united being imbued with the spirit of Liberation War and build Bangladesh as a non-communal and democratic country.

Hasina, also a former prime minister, wished a happy Christmas to all Christians all over the world.

"We believe in a society where people can practice their respective religion," she said, adding that Bangladesh became independent for all as people of all faiths made great sacrifices for the independence.

"Let us pray today so that the nation could get rid of grenade and bomb attacks, repression, killing, rape and militancy," Hasina said.

Earlier, Hasina along with the Archbishop cut a Christmas cake. The Christian leaders also greeted the opposition leader with a Christmas card and a bouquet.

AL leaders Obaidul Quader, Abdul Mannan, Aktheruzzaman and Dr Hasan Mahmud were also present.