Dhaka: Adviser to the Ministries of Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Sharmeen S Murshid today administered a mass oath, reaffirming commitment to rebuilding the nation in line with the spirit of July Uprising.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sharmeen declared, "We must build the country in the spirit of July," during the ceremony dubbed as Mass Oath for Rebuilding Society in July's Spirit at Osmani Memorial Auditorium. The event, organized by the Ministry of Social Welfare, virtually connected hundreds of thousands of participants from all 64 districts including Dhaka as well as upazilas.
The adviser emphasized that the gathering was not merely a service fair or assembly, but a social contract and a promise for a new beginning. She reminded participants of the historic days of July, urging them to realize the dream of a Bangladesh free from inequality and exploitation. "In those historic days of July, you dreamt of a Bangladesh, free from inequality and exploitation-humane and dignified. Today marks our collective journey to realize that dream," she added.
Highlighting the symbolic nature of the July resurgence, Sharmeen stated, "It's not just a change in power-it's a revival of humanity in the character of the state." She continued, affirming the state's commitment to the people, "From now on, the state will no longer be a distant entity-it will be your closest friend."
Sharmeen pledged to bring all services of her ministries to the doorsteps of the underprivileged, mentioning that structural reforms are underway to deliver entitled allowances through scientific means, eliminating inefficiencies.
Reiterating a zero-tolerance stance against violence, she declared the country's intolerance for any harm towards women and children. She highlighted the National Women's Protection Helpline 109 and Child Protection Helpline 1098 as crucial resources for protection and support.
She concluded with a vision for a society where women and children can grow up fearlessly and live with dignity. "We aim to build a society where every woman and child grows up fearlessly and lives with dignity. We will free our motherland from injustice, corruption, inequality, abuse and the shame of poverty," she said.
The event was chaired by Social Welfare Secretary Dr. Md. Mahiuddin, with Senior Secretary of Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Mamtaz Ahmed speaking as a special guest. Representatives from various sectors, including ministry officials, educators, religious leaders, youth, journalists, and 'July Daughters' were present.