Land ministry working to curb corruption, improve services: State minister

State Minister for Lands and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin on Thursday said the government does not want to operate through “unrealistic methods or promises” and is focused on ensuring better public services, particularly in the land sector.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a three-day Land Service Fair at Chittagong Circuit House premises, the state minister said the government remains committed to earning public trust through its work and accountability.

“We do not want to work with unrealistic methods or unrealistic promises. We were elected by the direct votes of the people and we want to continue serving in a way that allows us to seek votes from the people with confidence in the future,” he said.

Helal Uddin also urged citizens to become more aware and to identify shortcomings within the land administration system so authorities can take corrective measures.

“If people are aware, they will understand that not everyone associated with land administration is involved in irregularities. We request the public to point out our mistakes and limitations so that we can improve and provide better services,” he said.

Referring to BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, the minister said government officials and public representatives should remember that the people are the “real owners” of the country and deserve respectful and efficient services.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that people receive proper services with sincerity, honesty and dedication,” he added.

The minister further said the government is working to gradually reduce corruption, particularly in departments under the Ministry of Land and to ensure faster and more accessible land-related services for the public.

The programme was presided over by Chittagong Deputy Commissioner Zahidul Islam Miah. Chittagong Divisional Commissioner Dr Ziauddin, CMP Commissioner Hasan Md Shawkat Ali, DIG Md Moniruzzaman and Superintendent of Police Masud Alam, among others, attended the event.

AH/SH