Staff Reporter
President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir yesterday called for united efforts to ensure the development,
rights and dignity of the people belong to ethnic minority communities in the country.
The President made the call when a delegation of Bangladesh Nationalist Ethnic Minority Party led by its
president Mrigen Hagidok paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban this afternoon, a press release
issued by President’s Press Wing said.
During the meeting, members of the delegation apprised the President of various problems and
development-related issues of ethnic minority communities.
The President said the government was working sincerely to resolve the problems of ethnic minority
people living in the hills and plains.
“Ethnic minority people themselves also need to take more initiatives for their rights and development
and increase unity and mutual cooperation among themselves,” the President said.
“If you take one step forward, I will take two steps forward for you,” he added.
He stressed the need to identify the problems and potentials of ethnic minority people and undertake
realistic projects accordingly for their development.
Referring to land-related problems of ethnic minority people, the President urged all to remain aware and
united to protect their rights.
He urged them to take initiatives to resolve the problems while maintaining communication with the local
administration.
Mentioning the cutting of betel plants at a Khasi Punji in Kulaura of Moulvibazar, he said the incident
was extremely unfortunate.
He assured them that the matter would be investigated impartially and necessary action would be taken
against those responsible.
The President laid special emphasis on ensuring educational opportunities for ethnic minority people,
improving the quality of their education and further promoting their cultural and social activities.
He also positively responded to arrange a cultural program at Bangabhaban on the occasion of next
Pahela Baishakh with the participation of representatives of ethnic minority communities.
Minister for Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Saching Prue, Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Bijon Kanti
Sarkar, general secretary of Bangladesh Nationalist Ethnic Minority Party Shishir Deo, among others,
were present on the occasion.
The President’s Military Secretary, Secretary were also present.
