Pabna Deputy Commissioner Md. Aminul Islam has called on ethnic minority communities to view themselves as first-class citizens and actively work alongside the state to claim their constitutional rights.
Speaking as the chair of a liaison and coordination meeting in Pabna on Wednesday afternoon, DC Aminul Islam emphasized that the Constitution guarantees equal opportunities for every citizen from birth. "Bangladesh belongs to everyone. The state is not an enemy of the people; it is committed to public welfare and ensures special benefits for ethnic minorities" he said, adding that there are no barriers to religious practice or freedom of expression in the country.
The meeting was organized under the ECSAP project to expand civic space and enhance the participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
During the session BRAC Program Coordinator Ashikur Rahman presented a paper highlighting key challenges faced by plainland indigenous groups. Representatives from small ethnic communities in Ishwardi, Atgharia and Bhangura upazilas urged the government to ensure festival security for the upcoming Puja, expand employment, build community schools and temples and allocate housing and land.
Addressing their concerns the District Legal Aid Officer and Senior Civil Judge Md. Azharul Islam reassured attendees that state legal assistance remains freely accessible to all. Senior district administration officials, government department heads and CSO leaders were also present.
