Photo : BSS

KHULNA, June 1, 2026 (BSS) - BNP Information Affairs Secretary Azizul Bari Helal has said the country's development and people's welfare could be ensured through the implementation of the ideals of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. 

He made the remarks on Sunday while addressing a discussion and food distribution programme as the chief guest at Sarwar Khan College ground in Dighalia, Khulna, marking the 45th martyrdom anniversary of Ziaur Rahman.

Highlighting the importance of the proposed Padma Barrage project at Pangsha in Rajbari, Helal said excess water released through the Farakka Barrage could be preserved there and later utilized when upstream flow decreases. 

He also stressed the importance of the Teesta Barrage and effective management of the country's water resources.

The BNP leader said public interest must be given priority in the management of rivers and water bodies and cautioned against allowing any individual to take exclusive control of water bodies through lease arrangements.

Referring to Ziaur Rahman, Helal said he was a leader of the masses who did not wait for people to come to him, rather, he went to their doorsteps to learn about their problems and concerns.

He said agricultural production increased significantly under Zia's leadership, enabling the country not only to meet domestic demand but also to export rice.

Mentioning BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, Helal said he was also reaching out to ordinary people, listening to their aspirations and working towards building a transformed Bangladesh.

He claimed that the BNP has been gaining public confidence by following the ideals and political philosophy of Ziaur Rahman.

Leaders and activists of the BNP and its associate bodies, along with people from different walks of life, attended the programme.

Special prayers were offered for the eternal peace of the departed soul of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, followed by the distribution of food.