Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman has said the government plans to deliver legal aid services directly to people across the country.
He made the remarks on Monday while inaugurating a mobile legal aid camp at Korail slum in Dhaka, marking National Legal Aid Day. The programme was organised by the Directorate of Bangladesh Legal Aid with technical support from the German development agency GIZ.
The minister said legal aid activities in Bangladesh began in 1994 under the initiative of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia. He added that the current framework was later strengthened when an interim government ordinance was converted into law under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, leading to the passage of the Legal Aid Act in parliament.
Md Asaduzzaman said the initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to ensure justice for all, describing legal aid as a key component of the prime minister’s “Bangladesh First” programme. “The legal aid programme, being implemented under the initiative of Bangladesh government, has the German government as a development partner. It will be carried out across the country with their financial and technical support,” he said.
He added that the programme aims to support not only poor and vulnerable people but also victims of political violence, torture, and individuals with disabilities, as well as those burdened with legal cases. Families affected by the July mass uprising, including relatives of those killed and injured, will also be included.
The minister said particular emphasis would be placed on protecting women and children, especially those unable to seek legal assistance due to financial or social barriers despite being victims of sexual violence or harassment.
During the event, he provided immediate legal advice to two women, Mostakima Akter and Hawa Begum, and listened to concerns raised by residents of the slum. He also issued instructions to address some of the problems highlighted.
Md Asaduzzaman called on media organisations to raise awareness of the initiative so that marginalised communities can better understand their rights and access support. He also thanked the German government for its assistance, expressing hope that the programme would contribute to building a more just society.
