Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said there is no alternative to ensuring justice for all to consolidate the country’s renewed democratic journey, as the government moves to expand access to legal support, particularly for the financially disadvantaged.
The Prime Minister made the remarks while speaking at a programme arranged by the Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Ministry at Shaheed Abu Sayed International Convention Centre, marking National Legal Aid Day.
“After more than a decade and a half of fascist rule, the people of Bangladesh have begun to walk once again on the path of democracy. To strengthen the democratic journey, there is no alternative to establishing the rule of justice in the country. This justice is applicable to everyone,” he said.
He said the government believes a country without the rule of law, justice and human rights cannot become a truly democratic and humane state.
“In a democratic country, it is neither desirable nor acceptable for any citizen to be deprived of access to legal remedies or justice due to financial constraints,” he said.
Referring to constitutional provisions, the Prime Minister said Article 27 of the Constitution guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the law for all citizens, reflecting the spirit of Article 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
He said justice is a constitutional right of every citizen and reiterated that no one should be denied legal support or a fair trial due to poverty.
“To ensure access to justice for those who are not financially capable, the government has adopted specific plans and measures,” he added.
Sharing his experience, the Prime Minister said he had spent a long time in prison due to political vendetta, where he saw many underprivileged people remain behind bars for years without trial as they could not afford legal assistance.
“Justice is the foundation of progress and peace in any state and society. People in every age have aspired for a discrimination-free system where they can live with dignity and access to remedies,” he said.
He said equality, compassion and mutual trust are essential to build a justice-based society, adding that justice is not confined to courts or legal procedures but is a core value of a humane and responsible state.
