Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, March 5, 2026 (BSS) - Speakers at a seminar here today emphasized that zakat serves as a bridge of harmony and compassion between the rich and the poor, while also helping to reduce social inequality.

They noted that zakat not only purifies the wealth of the affluent but also encourages empathy in their hearts and supports the basic needs of underprivileged individuals.

The seminar, titled "Role of Zakat in Poverty Alleviation and Motivating the Wealthy to Contribute to the Government Zakat Fund for the Fiscal Year 2026-27," was organized by the Rajshahi divisional office of the Islamic Foundation, held in the conference room of the Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner's Office.

Dr. A.N.M. Bazlur Rashid, Commissioner of Rajshahi division, addressed the seminar as chief guest, while Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhter presided over the program. 

Dr. Mohammad Harunur Rashid, Director of the Dini Dawah and Cultural Affairs Department of the Islamic Foundation, also spoke at the event as special guest.

The keynote paper was presented by Prof. Nizam Uddin of the Arabic Department at Rajshahi University. He highlighted the religious and social significance of zakat and discussed ways to ensure its effective use in poverty reduction.

In his speech, Dr. Bazlur Rashid described zakat as one of the five pillars of Islam, calling it a form of financial worship, unlike fasting, which is physical worship.

He stressed that zakat fosters mutual empathy and brotherhood between the rich and the poor and urged wealthy individuals to contribute to the Government Zakat Fund. 

He added that proper management and distribution of zakat could significantly aid poverty alleviation.

Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhter noted that zakat is a mandatory financial system that plays a crucial role in promoting humanity, compassion, and social justice.

The seminar was moderated by Jahangir Alam, Field Supervisor of the Islamic Foundation Divisional Office in Rajshahi, and the welcome address was delivered by Muhammad Imamul Islam, Director of the office.

Other attendees included Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Sabur Ali, Additional Superintendent of Police Helena Akter, and several other officials.

At the conclusion of the event, zakat cheques from the Government Zakat Fund were distributed to 200 selected underprivileged individuals.