Dhaka: Land Minister Md. Mizanur Rahman Minu today emphasized that water bodies are a public asset, affirming that all individuals have equal rights to these natural resources. “‘Jal jar jola tar,’ meaning any individual can fish in the water bodies,” he stated during the 90th meeting of the committee on leasing government water bodies (jalmahals) at the Ministry of Land at Bangladesh Secretariat here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, State Minister for Land Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin and Senior Secretary of the ministry ASM Saleh Ahmed, along with other senior officials from the ministry and related departments, were also present at the meeting. The minister highlighted the need for fair and sustainable management of water bodies to protect public interest, the environment, and the livelihoods of poor communities.
Referring to the government’s election manifesto, Minister Minu reiterated their commitment to the principle ‘Jal jar jola tar’. He acknowledged the significant irregularities in leasing water bodies in the past and directed the Deputy Commissioner of Sunamganj to expedite sending the proposed list to the ministry after consulting local public representatives.
State Minister Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin emphasized that recommendations regarding the jalmahal leases from districts need thorough review. He insisted that proposals be scrutinized in accordance with existing laws and policies, with input from local Members of Parliament, to ensure an inclusive and loophole-free process.
During the meeting, proposals related to jalmahal leases in the Sunamganj district were presented. Additionally, a proposal to excavate the Bill Churil (closed) jalmahal in Chapainawabganj district received approval.