State Minister Promises Housing and Pay Rise for Harijan Community in Goalanda

State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam has offered positive assurances to address the long-standing demands of the Harijan community in Goalanda, Rajbari. Visiting the Goalanda Harijan Ramakrishna Palli Temple on Wednesday afternoon, he promised measures for permanent housing, wage increases for community workers, and financial support to complete unfinished temple infrastructure.

Highlighting the need to improve the living conditions of the marginalized community, the state minister said steps would be taken to find suitable land. If unutilized railway plots or government khas lands are identified, separate plots will be allocated and houses built for the families. He urged local community leaders and officials to identify available lands and report back promptly.

Taking into account the financial hardships of cleaners and sanitation workers from the community, he announced immediate initiatives to raise their remuneration. He mentioned that salaries would initially be increased by BDT 1,000, while discussions would proceed to include them in social safety net allowances. Additionally, necessary funds will be mobilized to swiftly finalize the temple's ongoing construction.

Emphasizing communal harmony, the minister reiterated that building an inclusive and peaceful Bangladesh remains a key priority of the government. He expressed satisfaction over the peaceful completion of the recent Durga Puja festivities with cross-community participation. Local community members welcomed the pledges, hoping for tangible improvements in their living standards.