Rangpur, Sep 14 (V7N) – A stir erupted in Rangpur after images of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Sheikh Hasina appeared during a virtual presentation at a workshop of the Department of Livestock. Fisheries and Livestock Advisor Farida Akhtar, present as chief guest, expressed strong disapproval, calling the incident “unacceptable” and a “reflection of fascism.”

The workshop on the Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development Project was held Sunday afternoon at the Rokeya Auditorium of Rangpur RDRS. During the presentation of the project’s progress review by Project Director Golam Rabbani, images of Mujib and Hasina were displayed on screen alongside their messages, prompting discontent in the audience.

Speaking to journalists afterward, Advisor Farida said:

“This is actually insulting. In the interim period, it is not acceptable to have their pictures on the blood of so many people. Fascism has many forms, and we should not think it has gone. Some of it may be reflected in this way.”

She added that the Project Director claimed it was a mistake and offered an apology, which she relayed to the participants. “I will look into the matter more deeply, but action will be taken,” Farida assured.

The Advisor also highlighted the ministry’s responsibilities, stressing the importance of eradicating animal diseases to ensure safe supplies of meat, milk, and eggs. She announced plans to expand domestic vaccine production to reduce reliance on imports and ease costs for farmers.

On cross-species disease risks, she emphasized the One Health Concept, noting:

“The spread of diseases from animals to humans is very serious. That is why we are working with the World Health Organization to protect both human and animal health at the same time.”

END/SMA/AJ