CHATTOGRAM, April 18, (V7N) – Liberation War Affairs Adviser Farooq E Azam today stressed the urgent need to bring underprivileged and street children into the mainstream of society, emphasizing that no society can be truly just or beautiful if a portion of its population is left behind.

He made the remarks while addressing a discussion titled “Bringing Street Children Back to the Mainstream of Society and the State” as the chief guest. The event was organized by Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) under the theme “A Safe Shelter and a Bright Future Are the Rights of All Children”.

Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid joined the program as a special guest.

Earlier in the day, the two advisers visited the Integrated Child Rehabilitation Center and the Farhadabad Government Children’s Home, both of which serve as shelters for children and adolescents under Hathazari upazila.

Freedom fighter Farooq E Azam said, “We cannot build a fair and inclusive society while leaving a segment of our children deprived of basic rights. Every child is a citizen of this country and deserves equal opportunity in education, sports, culture, and social participation.”

Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid echoed the call for action, urging collaborative efforts between government bodies and local communities to improve the education, shelter, and healthcare of disadvantaged children.

"We must all work together to ensure a quality life for every child, especially those from poor and neglected backgrounds," she stated.

CMP Commissioner Hasib Aziz presided over the event, which was also attended by prominent officials including City Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain, Divisional Commissioner Dr. Md. Ziauddin, 34 Engineer Construction Brigade Commander Brig Gen Md. Shamsul Alam, Chattogram Range DIG Ahsan Habib Palash, CDA Chairman Engineer Nourul Karim, and Daily Azadi Editor MA Malek.

During their visit to the Farhadabad Children’s House, Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid expressed dissatisfaction with the poor hygienic conditions. She instructed the center’s supervisor to ensure monthly medical check-ups for all children and to maintain strict hygiene throughout the facility.

The day’s activities highlighted the government’s continued focus on child welfare and underscored the need for inclusive development strategies to secure the rights and future of every child in Bangladesh.

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