Manikganj: The International Day of Older Persons was marked in Manikganj with a series of initiatives focused on promoting awareness about the rights and welfare of the elderly population. The event aimed to highlight the significant role older individuals play in both local and global contexts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the theme for this year's observance was "Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights". The festivities commenced with a vibrant rally that wound through the primary thoroughfares of the district town, drawing attention to the cause.
Following the rally, a discussion took place in the conference room of the Deputy Commissioner's office. The event saw the presence of Deputy Commissioner Dr. Manwar Hossein as the chief guest. It was presided over by Mofijul Islam Khan Kamal, a freedom fighter and the founding principal of Manikganj Government Women's College, who also serves as the president of Manikganj Probin Hitoishi Sangha.
The gathering featured speeches from several notable personalities, including former district education officer Md Abdul Monnaf Khan, former chairman of Krishnapur union and valiant freedom fighter Abdul Hamid Khan, Professor Intaj Uddin, Professor Urmila Roy, Deputy Director of Social Services Abdul Baten, and journalist Monirul Islam Mihir. The speakers urged the government to implement measures such as reserved seating for elderly people in public transport and the establishment of dedicated booths for them at banks and hospitals. They also advocated for increased funding in the social services sector to better support the elderly community.