BNP Secretary General and Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir spoke as the chief guest at a view-exchange meeting organized by the Bangladesh Nationalist Small Ethnic Communities Party, held at the BNP Chairman’s office in city’s Gulshan. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, March 31, 2026 (BSS) - BNP Secretary General and Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today said the government intends to move forward in addressing the problems of small ethnic groups through dialogue and discussion.

“We are your own people. We want to stay alongside you, identify your problems, and gradually move toward solutions,” he said while speaking as the chief guest at a view-exchange meeting organized by the Bangladesh Nationalist Small Ethnic Communities Party, held at the BNP Chairman’s office in city’s Gulshan. 

Mirza Fakhrul said that people from small ethnic groups face various challenges, and initiatives will be taken to identify and resolve those issues. “The formation of a special fund to support entrepreneurs is under consideration. We will try to discuss with the Prime Minister whether a separate fund can be created for you. We will also look into providing loans at low interest or even without collateral,” he added.

The minister further noted that the government will prioritize employment, education, and training opportunities for small ethnic communities. Efforts are underway to explore how support can be provided through different government departments, and steps will be taken to institutionalize this sector, he said. 

“Our doors will always remain open for you. You can come at any time and share your concerns. Never feel isolated, you are part of us,” added the minister. 

Emphasizing social harmony and brotherhood, he said the world has become increasingly challenging, marked by war, violence and conflict. Bangladesh must be built as an example of love and harmony, he said, adding, “We want to build a ‘rainbow nation’ where all communities can live with dignity.” 

Praising the culture of small ethnic communities, Fakhrul also mentioned plans to organize cultural exhibitions in the future and a large national gathering involving members of small ethnic communities from across the country within this year.

Highlighting the importance of unity, he said, “The unity you have built must not be broken. One of the weaknesses of our society is that we easily become divided. We must overcome this tendency.”

Responding to remarks from various representatives at the meeting, Mirza Fakhrul said that if demands are submitted in written form through the respective Deputy Commissioners, they will be reviewed promptly. 

He assured that necessary steps would be taken to resolve issues in Dinajpur and other areas.

Mirza Fakhrul also expressed optimism regarding the representation of women from small ethnic communities, stating that efforts will be made to ensure their participation in reserved seats for women.

The leaders and activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Small Ethnic Communities Party were present during the meeting.