BNP lawmaker Zainul Abdin Farroque on Saturday criticised Jamaat-e-Islami over its role during the 1971 Liberation War and urged the government to increase budgetary allocations and allowances for freedom fighters.
Taking part in the general discussion on the proposed national budget for FY2026-27 in Parliament, the Noakhali-2 MP questioned Jamaat lawmakers about the party`s position during the Liberation War and referred to the killing of intellectuals in the final days before Bangladesh`s independence.
Addressing Jamaat MPs, Farroque urged them to reflect on the events of 1971, saying the nation would always remember those who sacrificed their lives for independence.
Recalling his own participation in the Liberation War, he said he had joined the fight after hearing the declaration broadcast in the voice of former President Ziaur Rahman.
Farroque acknowledged that many freedom fighters are now associated with Jamaat and called on them to speak more about the Liberation War while supporting increased benefits for veterans.
He said the country must honour both those who sacrificed during the 1971 Liberation War and those killed or injured in the July uprising, but stressed that the significance of the Liberation War should never be overlooked.
The BNP MP appealed to Finance Minister Salahuddin Ahmed to raise allocations for freedom fighters in the proposed budget.
Farroque also welcomed the proposed budget, describing it as well presented, and praised the finance minister, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and the cabinet for preparing and approving it.
He commended opposition lawmakers for taking part in the budget debate without rejecting the proposal outright and urged all parties to continue offering constructive criticism to strengthen parliamentary democracy.
The veteran parliamentarian also welcomed the government`s plan to upgrade 50-bed specialised hospitals into 100-bed facilities and praised budgetary measures aimed at improving healthcare services.
He stressed the importance of women`s empowerment through education and development programmes and welcomed allocations intended to revive industries affected by gas and electricity shortages.
Calling for cooperation between the treasury and opposition benches, Farroque said democratic politics requires parties to work together in the national interest regardless of which side they occupy in Parliament.
He concluded by urging all political parties to unite for the country`s development, saying collective efforts were essential to building a stronger Bangladesh.
-20260622093044.jpg)
-20260627063846.jpg)
-20260627055951.jpg)
-20260622074004.jpg)
