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Bangla Press Desk: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated, "The government will take initiatives to further increase allowances for persons with disabilities to improve their standard of living. Considering the state's financial capacity, these allowances will be raised in the future so that they may lead their lives with a greater degree of comfort."
He made these remarks on Saturday evening (October 17) during an exchange meeting with representatives of the Bangladesh Welfare Association for Persons with Disabilities, held at the Shapla Hall of the Prime Minister's Office.
Emphasizing that it is the responsibility of both the government and society to support persons with disabilities, the Prime Minister noted that they are an integral part of society. Their rights, dignity, and essential needs must be given due consideration. The government is sincerely committed to addressing any shortcomings that may have existed in this regard in the past.
He further mentioned that the government would explore the possibility of introducing sign language in various government institutions and courts. Relevant ministries will be instructed to take the necessary steps in this direction.
Highlighting the importance of skill development and employment for persons with disabilities, the Prime Minister said, "We must create opportunities for them to nurture their talents and provide various forms of training to help them become economically self-reliant. The government will also consider expanding training opportunities for them in the information technology sector."
He directed the Minister of Social Welfare to take the necessary initiatives in this regard.
The Prime Minister stated, "We will consult with the Ministry of Health to ensure the presence of individuals proficient in sign language at hospitals, thereby overcoming communication barriers for persons with disabilities when seeking medical care. Similarly, steps will be taken to ensure legal assistance for women with disabilities."
Noting the need for accurate statistics to determine the actual number of persons with disabilities, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated that the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics would be instructed to collect reliable data and present it to the government. He also mentioned that the government would consider providing special facilities for farmers with disabilities and extending the upper age limit for their entry into government service.
Stressing the importance of ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities, he added, "Necessary measures must be taken to resolve the challenges they face while using public transportation." In this regard, the 'pink bus' service will be made more accessible for women with special needs, and the feasibility of introducing disability-friendly bus services in Dhaka and other major cities will be explored. The Prime Minister stated, "Directives have been issued to ensure that the designs of new buildings incorporate provisions for the access and mobility of persons with disabilities. It has been stipulated that building designs lacking such facilities will not be approved."
Welcoming the proposal to create employment opportunities for persons with disabilities within educational institutions, she noted that necessary steps would be taken following consultations with the Ministry of Education.
Regarding the proposal to ensure the representation of persons with disabilities in the National Parliament, the Prime Minister remarked, "This matter involves constitutional considerations; it will be discussed with party leaders." She further mentioned that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Law, and the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs to provide legal assistance to persons with disabilities—a step that will facilitate access to such support.
Emphasizing the government's unwavering commitment to supporting persons with disabilities, the Prime Minister said, "Individuals with disabilities face various limitations and adversities. Recognizing these challenges, the government will strive to provide the utmost support." She added, "Every human being has the right to live with honor and dignity. The government is dedicated to ensuring that persons with disabilities have access to the necessary facilities to lead self-reliant and comfortable lives."
During the event—moderated by Abdus Sattar Dulal, founder and executive director of the Bangladesh Protibondhi Kallyan Samity (BPKS)—30 individuals with disabilities and representatives from various organizations spoke, presenting their concerns and demands to the Prime Minister. When it was mentioned that a disabled athlete named Md. Mohsin had brought a cap as a gift for the Prime Minister, Tareq Rahman stepped down from the stage to receive it on her behalf. On this occasion, the Prime Minister also assured support for the athlete's team to participate in sporting events abroad. The Minister of Social Welfare, Professor Dr. [Name omitted in original text], also delivered a speech. A Z M Zahid Hossain, State Minister Farzana Sharmin, and the Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary A B M Abdus Sattar.
At the end of the event, the Prime Minister took part in a group photograph with the speakers present.
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