Dozens of minority-community members in Dhaka on Friday said they have been facing discrimination and exploitation in workplaces and in society because of their place of birth and professional identities.
People from the community at a human chain also urged the government to take initiatives to eliminate disparity between the community members and other people with a view to upholding the constitutional rights of the citizens.
They cited the article 28 (1) of the country’s constitution which says the state shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex for place of birth.
They also cited the article 29 (2) which says no citizen shall, on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth, be ineligible for, or discriminated against in respect of, any employment or office in the service of the republic.
Bangladesh Dalit and Excluded Rights Movement organised the human chain in front of the National Museum in Dhaka, braving heavy rains in the morning.
According to BDERM, about 55 lakh of Kanpuri, Telegu, Hrishi, Kawra, Bede (gipsy), Rabidas, Santhal, Mudna, Pawra, Tea-gardener and Orao people live in the country.
BDERM general secretary Bodhanik Solomon said the Awami League-led government should work to keep their election pledge to ensure the right of the minority community.
The Awami League in its election manifesto said, ‘Terrorism, discriminatory treatment and human rights violations against religious and ethnic minorities and indigenous people must come to an end permanently. Security of their life, wealth and honour will be guaranteed. Their entitlement to equal opportunity in all spheres of state and social life will be ensured.’
