Imams, Muazzins and Khatibs to Be Brought Under Government Allowance: Information State Minister

The state minister said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has launched a programme to provide government allowance to the imams, muazzins and khatibs of mosques in every area of the country. The programme has already begun in a few mosques under a pilot project; once the project's experience and activities are complete, mosques across the country will gradually be brought under the programme. The government has taken this initiative in recognition of the social and religious contributions of people associated with religious institutions.

Criticising the previous government, Yaser Khan Chowdhury said that for the past 17 years, waz mahfils were not allowed to be held in the country, while jatra performances were permitted; proper importance must be given to religious values and social culture. He said that during elections, a party spoke of selling tickets to heaven and campaigned that voting for a particular symbol would take one to heaven; he urged everyone to stay away from such misleading propaganda. On the trials for the Shapla Chattar and July killings, the information state minister said those involved in these incidents should not be given any kind of shelter; however, unless someone creates a major problem, the government does not want to be harsh with them either. He also urged everyone to refrain from any attempt to worsen the law-and-order situation.

Speaking about the development of Nandail, the state minister said the necessary work for the area's development is being implemented in compliance with rules and regulations, and this development work will continue in the future. Earlier, the state minister laid the foundation stone of the Kalenga Bazar-Bahadurpur Natun Bazar road in Moazzempur union of the upazila. He said improved communication plays an important role in the rural economy, trade and commerce, and in improving people's living standards. On the day, the information state minister distributed corrugated iron sheets among 66 families affected by natural disasters and fires in Nandail, expressing the government's resolve to continue support activities to ease the suffering of the affected families.

Expressing gratitude to the devotees who attended the mahfil, Yaser Khan Chowdhury thanked the pir of the organising institution, Hazrat Maulana Abdul Quddus, and assured cooperation in the overall improvement of the mahfil next year as well. At the end of the discussion, Maulana Abdul Quddus conducted the final munajat praying for the welfare of the country, the nation and the Muslim Ummah; the state minister also took part in it.