Photo: BSS

CHATTOGRAM, Aug 2, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Land and Hill Tracts Affairs Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin today said honesty, public service and equality must be the guiding principles in building the new Bangladesh envisioned under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

"There is no alternative to honesty and public service, and there is no place for discrimination," he said while distributing relief among flood-affected people in Banshkhali at a programme organised by the Ziaur Rahman Foundation.

Calling for greater public participation in nation-building, Mir Helal urged people to contribute a portion of their income, time and efforts to improving the lives of the poor and marginalized and to advancing the welfare of the country.

He said the foundation had stood beside people during difficult times even when the BNP was not in power. Referring to the recent floods, he said the government responded promptly after receiving flood warnings by taking measures in affected areas, including the Chattogram Hill Tracts, to protect lives and support those in need.

The state minister said that after assuming office on February 12, 2026, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman instructed ministers, government officials and political leaders to remember that the country's true owners are its people.

"Serving the people must remain our highest priority. It is our collective responsibility to ensure public services and uphold the fundamental rights of every citizen," he said.

Mir Helal also said BNP leaders and activists had endured "inhumane torture and oppression" over the past 19 years.