Government and people
It is an irony that after self-rule of 40 years, insofar as the average lifespan of Bangladeshis is concerned , we are told that the best is yet to come. More than poverty, what pains the people is the gross indifference and insensitivity of the ruling classes and politicians to their needs. Governance does not end with rhetoric on occasions. We need a strong political will and determination to achieve sustainable development.
Despite being the world's youngest democracy, what we see is an ineffective state apparatus, besides an indifferent bureaucracy, rampant corruption and marginalisation of the minorities. As the number of Bangladeshis in the list increases, we are also witness to the grim reality of freedom fighters and farmers' suicides in different parts of the country. We have, indeed, come a long way. And besides moving steadily into the league of developed nations, we have also stayed rooted to our culture and ethos. What we need to remember and acknowledge is that the real heroes behind our progress are the masses. Undoubtedly, there has been tremendous progress with the graph soaring high in areas such as communication and technology. But the graph on discipline, decorum, and decency in public life has nose-dived over the years, which is a reflection of the deterioration of human values.
Hunger has not been eliminated, farmers continue to commit suicide, crimes against women are on the rise, and terrorism is spreading its tentacles.
Hopefully, by the time we celebrate 40 years of Independence, the country will be free from hunger and poverty. Their collective contribution is, I am sure, more than that of policymakers'. It is especially evident in times of crisis when their humanitarian spirit and resilience in managing and successfully overcoming disasters and calamities are palpable. The government should salute its people and ensure that its promises benefit those at the grassroots.
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