Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday warned that while the country is moving towards change following the struggles of the July movement, certain quarters are persistently spreading despair to incite instability.
Speaking at a discussion commemorating the 165th birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore at the Rabindra Kachari Bari in Patisar village, Atrai upazila, Fakhrul, who is also BNP Secretary General, said, “There is a section in the country that remains constantly disappointed and attempts to unsettle society at various times.”
He did not, however, specify any particular group.
Turning to national politics, Fakhrul expressed concern that the country’s political system has not achieved its full potential.
“People have repeatedly struggled for change and even sacrificed their lives, yet real transformation has not been realised,” he said, emphasising that the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War should remain central to Bangladesh’s national identity.
“We are Bangladeshis, and that identity must come first. Independence was not easily achieved-it required nine months of struggle. Similarly, democracy has been restored through persistent efforts,” he added.
Reflecting on the July uprising, Fakhrul said the nation’s youth united in pursuit of change. “Our children fought together during the July uprising. Change has come, and a new election has taken place. The people now have renewed hopes from the government,” he remarked.
The minister also criticised “fascist forces” for allegedly undermining the country, accusing them of looting the economy, destabilising banks, and weakening administrative structures.
“We have reached this point through continuous struggle against such forces. Yet, many are attempting to divert this progress by creating unrest over minor issues. None of us desires further instability,” Fakhrul added.
On Tagore’s legacy, Fakhrul highlighted the poet’s contributions beyond literature. “Rabindranath Tagore worked for farmers’ welfare during his visits to Patisar, establishing a bank and introducing modern agricultural methods. His influence extended far beyond poetry, songs, prose, and drama. Through works like Gitanjali, he inspired the entire world,” he said.
The programme was chaired by Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner ANM Bazlur Rashid.
Other participants included Land Minister Md Mizanur Rahman Minu, State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom, former ambassador M.Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, and several local lawmakers spoke at the event.
