Dhaka: Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Dr AZM Zahid Hossain on Monday emphasized that the responsibility of building an equitable and just society cannot rest solely on the state, urging citizens to actively participate in addressing social challenges. Speaking as the chief guest at a programme titled ‘Equality and Justice in the Changing Landscape of Bangladesh,’ organised by Plan International Bangladesh at a city hotel, Dr Hossain highlighted the shared responsibilities of both the state and its citizens.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister underscored that while the state can introduce necessary systems and policies, it is society’s responsibility to ensure their effective implementation. He noted, “If the state and its people work together, we can easily overcome the challenges.” Dr Hossain also pointed out the importance of adapting the existing legal framework to address emerging issues by encouraging stakeholders to inform the government about the need for new laws.
The minister further stated that the presence of laws addressing violence against women and children is insufficient without proper enforcement. Emphasizing the government’s commitment, he said, “The current government is committed to ensuring their full implementation and will adopt a zero-tolerance stance on all forms of such violence.” Dr Hossain also reaffirmed that there would be no compromise on women’s welfare and rights.
Dr Jahed Ur Rahman, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Policy and Strategy related to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, also addressed the event. Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami MP Saiful Alam Khan Milon attended the programme as a special guest.