Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon announced today that the government will prioritize Bangladesh’s national interest by taking steps to renew the Ganga Water Treaty ahead of its expiry in December.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to continue strong diplomatic efforts, in coordination with all stakeholders, to secure Bangladesh’s rightful share of transboundary river waters through existing international frameworks and protocols. Swapon made these remarks as the chief speaker at a discussion commemorating Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani’s historic Farakka Long March Day, organized by the ‘Bhashani Janashakti Party’ at the Central Shaheed Minar in the capital.
Swapon recalled Bhashani’s leadership and noted that, despite the absence of an effective international water-sharing mechanism at the time, Bhashani had foreseen the emerging water crisis. He highlighted Bhashani’s focus on public welfare and unity, noting his efforts to mobilize people beyond divisions. Swapon remarked on Bhashani’s belief that religious values are essential for sustaining culture, democracy, and secularism.
The minister further stated that the current government aligns closely with Bhashani’s ideology and upholds the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol, which signifies independence, sovereignty, and a diplomatic approach to resolving the Farakka water dispute. He called on all democratic forces to unite in the national interest, underscoring that water-sharing issues rely not only on treaties but also on strong bilateral diplomatic relations. Swapon expressed optimism that the government would address the longstanding issue through its popular mandate.
The program was attended by BNP Secretary General and Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir as the chief guest. Other notable attendees included leaders from various political parties and organizations, such as Revolutionary Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque, Ganoforum President Advocate Subrata Chowdhury, JSD General Secretary Shahid Uddin Mahmud Swapon, former Jahangirnagar University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jasim Uddin Ahmed, former minister and BNP leader Noor Mohammad Khan, and Convenor of Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad Central Command Council Nayem Jahangir.
The event was presided over by Bhashani Janashakti Party Chairman and freedom fighter Rafiqul Islam Bablu and moderated by party Secretary General Dr. Abu Yusuf Selim. Speakers from various political and social organizations reaffirmed their stance against unilateral water control and expressed support for Maulana Bhashani’s ideals.