Ensure mainstream inclusion of the marginalised: Experts

The Bangladesh government should ensure mainstream inclusion of marginalised communities such as Harijans, Rishi, Kaiputra, Bede and Bihari, which will help Bangladesh sustain its development, and allow a smoother transition to a middle-income country.

Eminent Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud made the remark as the chief guest while addressing an event titled “Launching of Brattyajan Resource Centre (BRC) and Books,” held in the capital’s CIRDAP auditorium on Saturday.

He further said, “In development, the economic contribution of these communities should be highlighted, while preserving their culture, language and ethnic identities. Members of these communities should not be considered marginalised in the near future.”

“The goal of a developed country is that no one can be neglected due to their ethnic and gender identities, and our aim is to become developed in the upcoming days.”

The BRC was launched to build research-based strategies to address exclusion and marginalisation challenges, and the books contain research and resources on these communities.

Nijera Kori Coordinator Khushi Kabir, former chief information commissioner Prof Md Golam Rahman, European Union delegate Deputy Head of Mission Jeremy Opritesco, and high commissioner of Canada to Bangladesh Dr Lilly Nicholls attended the event as special guests.

Khushi Kabir said, “Nowadays, land rights are a major issue, as the most marginalised communities have no land and identity.”

Prof Golam Rahman said, “Information is power and we can change ourselves using information that is reflected in research and enshrined in BRC. We shall not isolate communities, rather make them united and equal.”

Opritesco said, “The EU fights against all discrimination based on ethnic and gender identities, language and culture. We expect strong involvement of all parties.”