Staff Reporter :
Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu, MP, has said that the people are proud of the supreme sacrifice made by Shaheed Abu Sayeed-a heroic son of Rangpur-and that his martyrdom was glorious.
“Abu Sayeed is the symbol of the democratic movement. Alongside Abu Sayeed, approximately 1,400 people from various walks of life across the country sacrificed their lives. Their sacrifices led to the fall of a long-standing autocratic regime,” he said.
He said this as the chief guest while inaugurating the construction of the ‘Shaheed Abu Sayed Gate’ at Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur on Friday afternoon.
The Minister said that Abu Sayeed stood tall and defiant against the henchmen of the autocratic regime. His self-sacrifice marked a turning point in the movement at that time.
The initiative to construct the Abu Sayed Gate at the university entrance is a landmark step to preserve the memory of martyr Abu Sayeed.
He said, “In the future, people passing through this route will see the gate and learn about his supreme sacrifice. This memory of martyr Abu Sayeed will keep him alive in the hearts of future generations”
The Minister said that the long-standing autocratic regime was toppled through the sacrifices made by people from all walks of life, including youth, elderly, children, students, intellectuals and professionals, during the July movement.
Subsequently, the BNP formed the government under the leadership of Tarique Rahman following an inclusive election participated in by all parties.
Respecting the aspirations for which Abu Sayeed and others sacrificed their lives during the July movement, the government is working to build a humane, democratic and prosperous Bangladesh by embracing the spirit of Abu Sayeed’s self-sacrifice.
Regarding the Teesta Master Plan, the Minister said that a major project of this magnitude cannot be implemented overnight; such projects require following various stages, including conducting surveys and formulating designs.
He expressed hope that work on the Teesta Master Plan could commence in 2027, noting that this would mark progress toward fulfilling the long-standing aspirations of the people of Rangpur.
He expressed optimism about initiating the creation of posts for faculty, officers, and staff to address the manpower shortage of Begum Rokeya University and completing the recruitment process soon.
He further added that the government has provided a substantial allocation for the Rangpur City Corporation.
“Employment opportunities will be created for the unemployed by establishing industrial factories in Rangpur. The government does not wish to leave any region subject to discrimination,” he said.
Speaking on the anti-drug social movement, the Minister said that drug addiction is a social issue affecting not only Rangpur but the entire country, with the youth being particularly vulnerable.
“A social movement is being organized to tackle this problem,” he said.
Assistant Organizing Secretary of the BNP Central Committee Md Abdul Khaleque, Member of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh Professor Dr Abdullah Al Mamun, Vice-chancellor of Begum Rokeya University Professor Dr Md Showkat Ali, Deputy Commissioner Israt Jahan, Rangpur Development
Authority Chairman Md Samsuzzaman Samu, President of Kawnia Upazila BNP Emdadul Haque Bharsha, Abu Sayeed’s father Md Mokbul Hossain, were present.
