BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday pledged to elevate Faridpur to divisional status if his party forms the next government, saying the move would be implemented if it benefits the people and accelerates regional development.
Addressing a massive election rally at Government Rajendra College ground in Faridpur as part of his nationwide campaign, Tarique said BNP believes all state power belongs to the people and seeks to govern the country based on that principle.
“If forming a division in Faridpur helps the people and speeds up development, then Faridpur will be made a division,” he said, drawing loud applause from thousands of supporters who gathered from different upazilas of the district and neighbouring areas.
The rally venue and surrounding areas turned into a sea of people from early morning, creating a festive atmosphere across the district town. Tarique’s visit generated widespread enthusiasm among party leaders, activists, and supporters.
Highlighting the long-standing problem of river erosion in the region, he said that if BNP comes to power, it will take immediate and effective measures to permanently address erosion along the Padma and other rivers.
Outlining his party’s agricultural plans, Tarique announced the introduction of a special farmer card to ensure easy access to seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides.
He also stressed the need to strengthen food security and boost agricultural productivity.
On women’s empowerment and social welfare, he said BNP would launch a family card programme to support women and vulnerable families, alongside plans to recruit healthcare workers to deliver doorstep medical services in both rural and urban areas.
He further pledged infrastructure development linked to the Padma Bridge to help resolve water scarcity and improve connectivity in the greater Faridpur region.
Referring to Bangladesh’s political history, Tarique said freedom fighters secured independence in 1971, while in 2024, students and the public safeguarded democracy by ousting authoritarian rule.
He also criticised a rival political group for making offensive remarks about women, recalling what he described as their controversial role in 1971.
Emphasising the development potential of southern Bangladesh, Tarique said that with proper policies, good governance, and investment in agriculture and industry, the region could become a driving force of the national economy.
He urged young people to stand firmly against injustice, calling them the future of the nation.
The rally concluded peacefully amid tight security, with participants expressing optimism that the massive turnout reflected growing public demand for political change and renewed momentum for BNP in Faridpur.
