BNP Secretary General and Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today said he would write to the Prime Minister seeking the introduction of government allowances for the families and children of disappeared persons.

"A letter will be sent to the Prime Minister demanding that the government introduce allowances for the families and children of the disappeared persons," he said.

No effective initiative has yet been taken to ensure the upbringing of the children of those families who lost their relatives, as well as their survival and a dignified life, he said, adding, "Therefore, I will personally raise the issue with the Prime Minister."

Mirza Fakhrul said this while addressing as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the production of the documentary titled "Mayer Dak", held at the Bangladesh Film Archive auditorium in the capital's Agargaon, marking International Women's Day. 

Mentioning that the families of the disappeared persons are passing their days in immense hardship, he said, "We will take initiative in this regard very soon."

He said that after returning he would write to the Prime Minister and inform him that it is extremely necessary to provide allowances to these families from the government and they should rightfully receive such support in the future.

The BNP Secretary General said elections have been held in the country, some have become ministers, some members of parliament, while many have secured high positions. "But the children of those whose sacrifices made this change possible are now facing an uncertain future," he said, adding, "It is everyone's responsibility at least to try to make their future a little better."

Noting that the families of the disappeared persons are still passing their days amid various sufferings, Mirza Fakhrul said the foremost responsibility now should be to keep these families alive, educate their children and create opportunities for them to move forward anew.

In an emotional voice, the BNP Secretary General said he had seen many children of those who were missing or killed during the movement since their childhood. Some have grown up after losing their fathers, he said, adding, society and the state must take responsibility so that no child has to endure such a situation in the future.

Referring to the role of Sanzida Islam Tuli during the movement and struggle, he described her as a true hero and said, "During difficult times, Tuli continued the struggle single-handedly and raised the issue in the international arena. It is highly commendable work."

Welcoming the initiative to produce the documentary "Mayer Dak", he said the film should properly reflect the country's struggles, sacrifices and the history of achieving democracy.

Mirza Fakhrul said that in the history of Bangladesh there have been many national struggles including the Language Movement, but very few high-quality literary and artistic works have been created on these struggles. 

He expressed hope that the initiatives being taken on recent struggles and sacrifices would be of international standard and help present Bangladesh's history of struggle before the world.