Dhaka, Jan 20 (V7N) — BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has assured the residents of Karail that he will stand by them in times of need, saying that he considers himself a part of the community.

“I am your child, a child of this area. I will stand by the people of Karail as much as I can in times of trouble,” Tarique Rahman said.

He made the remarks while speaking at a prayer meeting for former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, held at the T&T ground in Mohakhali on Tuesday (January 20) afternoon.

Highlighting BNP’s vision for equal opportunities, Tarique Rahman said that children of Karail slum dwellers will receive the same facilities as children living in high-rise buildings.

“They will have access to quality education, learn foreign languages, play sports and grow up with equal dignity. We want them to receive the same treatment,” he said, adding that BNP aims to ensure these facilities with the blessings of Allah.

Addressing housing issues, he said that BNP plans to gradually resolve the living difficulties of Karail residents by constructing multi-storied buildings and providing small flats registered in the names of current residents.

“We want the people living here to have permanent ownership so that they can settle securely in a city like Dhaka,” he said.

Tarique Rahman also emphasized plans to develop educational institutions and sports facilities, ensuring that children have both schools and playgrounds within the area.

On healthcare, he said that BNP intends to establish clinics and hospitals within Karail so that residents do not have to travel far for medical treatment.

He further stated that strict action will be taken against anyone who has harassed or exploited residents, including those who allegedly extorted gas, electricity, or water bills.

“If BNP’s plans are implemented, no one will be able to take anything from you by force. You will pay only what the meter shows and what the government determines,” he said.

Focusing on women’s economic empowerment, Tarique Rahman recalled that Khaleda Zia introduced free education for women and said BNP now plans to make women financially self-reliant by introducing ‘family cards’ for mothers and sisters.

He said BNP aims to develop and transform Karail into a planned, livable, and dignified residential area.

END/SMA/AJ