Jamaat-e-Islami has promised to bring back the bodies of Bangladeshis who die while working abroad at state expense, ensuring full respect and dignity for the deceased.
The pledge was made by party chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman on Wednesday during the unveiling of the party’s election manifesto, ‘People’s Manifesto’, ahead of 13th national parliamentary elections at a Dhaka hotel.
Dr. Shafiqur emphasized that expatriate Bangladeshis are not merely remittance earners; they are respected citizens whose rights and dignity remain the responsibility of the state even after death.
“Many work in harsh conditions abroad, some face accidents, others fall ill and die. Tragically, many families cannot afford to bring their loved ones home. Leaving a deceased abroad is unacceptable for any civilized state,” he said.
He added that if Jamaat-e-Islami forms the government, families will not have to struggle to repatriate their loved ones. The state will take full responsibility, ensuring the body is returned with dignity and at government expense.
Dr. Shafiqur also highlighted the economic and social contributions of expatriates, calling them the pride of the nation.
To secure their post-retirement welfare, the party proposes establishing a ‘Social Revolving Fund’ through joint participation of the government and expatriates, providing protection during illness or hardship.
“Jamaat-e-Islami’s manifesto is not just a paper promise; it outlines a humane governance system. A state that does not honor its citizens in life or death cannot be sustainable,” he said.
The event was attended by central party leaders, representatives from expatriate organizations and members of civil society.
SH
