Tarique pledges better housing, services for Karail residents

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday pledged to stand by the residents of Karail slum and work to improve their living conditions, saying his politics is rooted in the lives and struggles of ordinary people.

Speaking at a milad and doa mahfil organised by Karail residents at the T&T Colony field in Mohakhali, Tarique recalled his personal connection to the area and linked it to his broader political message. 

The programme was held to seek divine blessings for the departed soul of late BNP chairperson and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

“The house where I grew up after independence was demolished and flattened by an autocratic government. You saw it with your own eyes,” Tarique said. “I am now your son. I will stand by you and by the people of this area.”

The doa mahfil was conducted by Abdu Salam, chief coordinator of BNP’s election steering committee for Dhaka-17. Tarique Rahman’s wife, Zubaida Rahman, was also present at the event.

Expressing gratitude to the Karail community for arranging the programme, Tarique said Khaleda Zia had dedicated her life to public welfare. “Our politics is for the common people. Our goal is to improve their quality of life,” he said.

Outlining BNP’s future plans, Tarique said the party aims to introduce a Family Card to support women, particularly mothers, in managing household expenses with dignity. He also sought prayers for other initiatives, including a proposed Farmers’ Card.

Focusing on urban inequality, the BNP chairman stressed that children growing up in slums must enjoy the same rights and opportunities as those living in affluent neighbourhoods. “Just as children in high-rise buildings have access to good schools, healthcare and playgrounds, children from Karail must have the same opportunities,” he said.

Tarique also promised to explore planned housing solutions for the densely populated area. “We will work to ensure modern housing for the people of Karail. Those who have lived here for many years will be given ownership of the flats,” he said.

His remarks come as BNP steps up outreach efforts in urban constituencies, seeking to position itself as a party focused on social justice, housing rights and inclusive development ahead of the national election.