BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman announced that his party will establish a government hospital in Dhaka’s Uttara area if it comes to power. He made the statement early Tuesday during an election rally at Azampur Eidgah ground in Uttara, emphasizing that the hospital is a long-standing demand of local residents, particularly for low- and middle-income families. Rahman said the initiative would be taken if the BNP’s election symbol, the paddy sheaf, wins in the January 12 election.

In his speech, Rahman also acknowledged the contribution of Uttara residents to the August 5 student and public uprising, saying their role would be remembered in history. He highlighted ongoing problems in the area, including irregular gas supply despite regular billing, and linked it to a nationwide issue of halted gas exploration. He further pledged to address water shortages, waterlogging, and traffic congestion if his party forms the next government.

The rally concluded around 1:20 a.m., after which Rahman departed for his residence in Gulshan.