Rajshahi: Social watchdogs and youth leaders convened at a participatory meeting to deliberate on strategies for ensuring the basic rights of slum dwellers in Rajshahi. The meeting emphasized the need to end discrimination in access to safe housing, healthcare, and education for this marginalized community.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting revealed that approximately 32,500 families, or about 130,000 people, are residing in 104 slums within Rajshahi, grappling with numerous challenges. The event was organized by the Bangladesh Resource Centre for Indigenous Knowledge (BARCIK), a research-based development organization, and held at a local restaurant.
River researcher Mahbub Siddiqui chaired the meeting, which featured key addresses from Azizur Rahman, Chief Community Development Officer of Rajshahi City Corporation, Shah Alam, Sub-divisional Engineer of the Public Works Department, Murshed Alam Mahbub, Sub-divisional Engineer of the National Housing Authority, and Sadrul Anam, Assistant Town Planner of the Rajshahi Development Authority.
In a concept paper presentation, BARCIK Regional Coordinator Shahidul Islam provided an overview of the current conditions faced by slum dwellers. The discussions included contributions from youth leader Samrat Raihan, Slum Development Committee President Khurshid Alam, and slum-dweller Matiur Rahman.
The speakers highlighted the necessity of a collaborative effort among all stakeholders to ensure safe housing and basic services for slum residents, recognizing their contributions to society. They asserted that guaranteeing non-discriminatory access to essential rights such as housing, electricity, water, health, and education is vital for fostering balanced social development.