Ethnic minorities no longer lagging behind: Minister

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood Tuku on Saturday said the country’s ethnic minority communities are no longer lagging behind due to education and growing awareness.

He made the remarks while addressing a programme titled “Unity in Diversity and Cultural Harmony Fair", organised by the Bangladesh Ethnic Minority Federation at Muktir Sopan in Sirajganj town on Saturday noon as the chief guest.

He said that as many members of the communities are now serving in important positions in the administration, secretariat and different government offices.

The minister said boys and girls from ethnic minority communities must move forward through education in line with the changing times.

Highlighting the importance of education, he said, “If you become educated, one day the responsibility of running the country will also reach your hands.”

Tuku also said some past social and cultural practices used to hinder women’s self-esteem and mental development, but the situation has now changed.

“Women from ethnic minority communities are now serving in important positions, including as BCS cadres", he added.

The minister also mentioned the special quota facilities for ethnic minority people in government jobs and urged them to move beyond old conservative mindsets while preserving their religion and culture and focusing on education for their children.

Sirajganj Deputy Commissioner (DC) Md Aminul Islam, Superintendent of Police (SP) Saiful Islam Santu, district BNP general secretary Saidur Rahman Bacchu, representatives of different ethnic minority communities and political leaders and activists were present at the programme.

AB/AM