Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman has urged people from all walks of life to play a responsible role in establishing the rule of law, human values and citizens’ rights in Bangladesh.
He made the remarks while addressing a prize distribution ceremony as the chief guest at the Sheraton Hotel in Banani, Dhaka, on Wednesday.
The national-level talent hunt competition for visually impaired and transgender individuals was organised by the Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) Institute.
The minister said everyone in society and the state must come forward to ensure the rights of marginalised and underprivileged communities.
He praised the institute’s efforts to develop the skills of visually impaired and disadvantaged people and help them become self-reliant, describing the initiative as a noble contribution to society.
Highlighting the inclusion of transgender individuals in the programme, Asaduzzaman said they were also equal members of society and deserved equal rights.
“They too are human beings and hold equal rights. Both state and social initiatives must be strengthened further to ensure their rights and welfare,” he said.
The minister advised the institute authorities to coordinate with the relevant ministry to secure government support for their activities. He added that he would personally discuss the matter with the Social Welfare Minister to help expand such welfare programmes.
Reflecting on social realities, Asaduzzaman said many people with physical eyesight fail to stand against injustice, uphold human values or protect rights, while many visually impaired individuals contribute to society through their compassion and moral vision.
“Merely having eyesight is not enough; one’s inner eye must be opened,” he said.
Recalling the July 2024 movement, the minister said many people lost their lives, suffered injuries or became disabled during the uprising, and their sacrifices must not be forgotten.
He urged people to recognise injustice and humanitarian crises and act with conscience.
Referring to Article 21 of the Constitution, which outlines citizens’ duties, Asaduzzaman said everyone must act responsibly regardless of their position.
“If mistakes are made, they must be admitted and corrected, and we must work together to move the nation forward,” he added.
The minister stressed the need to fulfil responsibilities towards the country, its people and future generations to build a Bangladesh where citizens can enjoy freedom, democracy and the rule of law. He also warned against any attempt to restore fascism in Bangladesh and urged people not to develop authoritarian attitudes themselves.
“We must stand for justice, humanity and the rule of law, rather than opposing just for the sake of opposition,” he said.
Calling for the establishment of justice in society and the state, Asaduzzaman urged people to follow the values of peace, tolerance, equality and humanity taught by Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH).
The programme was chaired by Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) Institute Chairman Lieutenant General (retd) M Nuruddin Khan. Bangladesh Supreme Court Justice Faiz Ahmed and First Counsellor of the Iranian Embassy in Dhaka Esrafil Amiri Jorgazdini also addressed the event.
Prizes were distributed among visually impaired and transgender students who won competitions in Quran recitation, Hamd and Naat-e-Rasul (PBUH), computer skills, information technology and essay writing.
Since 2004, the Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) Institute has been providing free training in English, Arabic, information technology and Braille to visually impaired and underprivileged people. The institute also organises annual talent hunt competitions for disabled students during Rabiul Awal.
