Dhaka: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman visited the Korail slum late Tuesday night to assess the damage caused by a massive fire and to meet residents affected by the blaze. Dr. Rahman arrived at the site around 11:30 pm, spoke with displaced families, inspected the damaged structures, and gathered information on the losses suffered by the residents.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Rahman was accompanied by Dhaka North City's Medical Thana President and Jamaat's nominated candidate for Dhaka-17, Dr. S M Khaliduzzaman, the Ameer's personal assistant Nazrul Islam, along with local party leaders and activists. Speaking to reporters, Jamaat Ameer said the fire destroyed numerous makeshift homes in a short span, leaving low-income families without shelter, livelihoods, or their savings.
Dr. Rahman noted that while no lives were lost, the devastation left many without their only shelter. He described the fear, grief, and uncertainty visible on the residents' faces as profoundly moving. As immediate relief, the Jamaat Ameer distributed two blankets and essential food items to each affected family.
Expressing solidarity with the residents, Dr. Rahman emphasized the party's commitment to supporting the victims, stating, "From a sense of humanitarian responsibility, we will continue to stand by them and ensure they receive necessary support, InshaAllah." He stressed that it is primarily the government's duty to provide urgent assistance during disasters.
Dr. Rahman urged authorities to ensure safe shelter, food, water, medical care, clothing, and long-term rehabilitation for all affected families. He also called on NGOs, humanitarian organizations, and well-off individuals to step forward to help the victims.
In addition, the Jamaat Ameer urged the government to investigate why such densely populated areas frequently experience fires and whether sabotage could be a factor. He stressed the need for a thorough probe into the incident and for bringing any responsible parties to justice under the law.