The government has started work on preparing a comprehensive list of Liberation War martyrs through a research-based process, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman told parliament on Wednesday.
He also said steps have been taken to free parks and playgrounds in Dhaka and other metropolitan cities from illegal occupation and develop them into modern recreational spaces for children.
The prime minister made the remarks while replying to separate questions from lawmakers during the parliament session chaired by Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal.
Replying to a question from lawmaker Md Ruhul Amin Dulal, Tarique said a large number of people were killed during the 1971 Liberation War, but a complete and accurate list of martyrs and genocide victims has not yet been prepared.
As part of the initiative, the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs has already taken steps, including organising expert consultations with researchers, holding discussions with stakeholders and preparing a detailed action plan.
“Although the nation achieved independence through their sacrifices, a proper and comprehensive list of those who were killed during the Liberation War has still not been finalised,” he said.
Tarique said the government had pledged in its election manifesto to prepare a complete list of Liberation War martyrs based on in-depth research.
As part of the initiative, the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs has begun taking necessary steps, including holding discussions with researchers and relevant stakeholders, organising expert consultations and developing a detailed action plan.
The prime minister said the initiative would help prepare an accurate and acceptable list of genocide victims and martyrs, ensuring proper recognition and dignity for their sacrifices.
Dhaka parks to be reclaimed, modernised
In response to a question from lawmaker Lutfullahil Majed, Tarique said the government was committed to reclaiming parks and playgrounds across the country from illegal occupation and restoring them as child-friendly spaces.
He said most parks and playgrounds in Dhaka had already been freed through eviction drives, with modernisation projects underway.
The prime minister informed parliament that Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) currently oversees 189 parks, playgrounds and open spaces. Among these, 38 are owned by the DNCC, including 24 parks, six playgrounds, four children’s parks and four Eidgah grounds.
He said security arrangements, including CCTV surveillance, lighting facilities and security personnel, have been introduced at these sites.
Development work on 28 facilities, including 20 parks and four playgrounds, has already been completed, while the remaining 151 sites under RAJUK and the Housing and Public Works authorities will be developed in phases.
Tarique said Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has 256 parks and playgrounds under its jurisdiction, including those owned by other agencies.
He said DSCC continues to remove illegal structures from footpaths and playgrounds in line with court directives. Several major projects, including Malitola Park, Shaheed Matiur Rahman Park in Gulistan, Osmani Udyan, Nawabganj Park and Basabo Playground, are currently undergoing development.
The prime minister said Gazipur City Corporation plans to establish 65 playgrounds- one in each of its 57 wards and eight more in its eight zones.
He added that similar initiatives are continuing in other city corporations, including Mymensingh and Barishal.
Tarique said the standard of sports facilities has improved since the government assumed office and pledged to ensure adequate open spaces across the country so children can engage in sports and outdoor activities.
He also assured that eviction drives against illegal occupiers would continue.
