Dinajpur: Women and Children Affairs Minister AZM Zahid Hossain today confirmed the government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against violence targeting women and children. “The country’s laws provide the highest punishment, including the death penalty, for those who abuse or rape children. This law was enacted during the tenure of Prime Minister Khaleda Zia,” Minister Zahid, who also serves as the Social Welfare Minister, stated at a views-exchange meeting held in Hakimpur Hili Parishad hallroom.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was attended by local political leaders, administrative officials, people from various professions, and party activists. During the meeting, Minister Zahid elaborated on the government’s development activities, law enforcement measures, and social safety net programs. He highlighted the swift arrest of the accused in the Ramisa rape and murder case, underscoring the government’s serious stance on such incidents and its resolve for swift justice.
The minister emphasized that political identities would not shield offenders. “No matter which party the criminal belongs to – whether from the ruling party or the opposition – everyone is equal in the eyes of the law. No one will be spared,” he affirmed. Minister Zahid also discussed the government’s initiatives to combat terrorism, drug abuse, and mob violence, assuring that law enforcement agencies have been directed to improve the overall law and order situation.
He further mentioned the government’s social safety programs, particularly the Family Card program initiated during the BNP government’s tenure. Plans are in place to expand this program to benefit nearly two crore families by 2029, ultimately reaching around 10 crore people with essential government assistance. The minister underscored the government’s efforts to ensure that no citizen remains deprived of basic services, healthcare, or food.
Concluding his address, Minister Zahid distributed grants totaling 17 Taka lakh to various religious and social institutions, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting community development initiatives.