Bogura: Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku has emphasized that the country can achieve development by fostering indigenous nationalism through recognizing the significance of the mother tongue. He noted that patriotism does not flourish without understanding the importance of the mother language, and without this, national progress remains hindered.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tuku highlighted that during critical periods in Bangladesh’s history, the spirit of 1952 has repeatedly been revived. This spirit played a crucial role in the Liberation War and the events of August 5, 2024, led to the restoration of voting rights and the re-establishment of democracy.
The Minister made these remarks as the chief guest at a discussion meeting, cultural programme, and prize distribution ceremony organized by the District Administration at the Bogura Shilpakala Academy Auditorium to mark ‘Shaheed Dibash and International Mother Language Day-2026’. He underscored the necessity of appreciating the mother tongue on this day to promote patriotism and achieve desired development through linguistic perfection.
Tuku also addressed the influence of foreign languages on Bengali, criticizing the use of the word ‘Inquilab’ by the current Gen Z as it does not align with the enriching context of the Bengali language. He urged the younger generation to revert to their mother tongue and focus on national development.
Furthermore, the Minister mentioned the development of an industrial park and area on the banks of the Jamuna River in Sirajganj. He raised concerns about the absence of a Central Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) to manage waste from proposed factories, warning that without it, the Jamuna River will suffer pollution, adversely affecting agriculture and residents. He called on the administration to ensure that industries do not contaminate the river and urged attention to environmental preservation.