Abdul Hannan Masud, Member of Parliament for Noakhali-6 and leader of the National Congress Party (NCP), has called in parliament for the formation of a new administrative division centered on Noakhali. He raised the demand on Wednesday, emphasizing that residents of the greater Noakhali region have been campaigning for this administrative upgrade since 1994.

Masud argued that Noakhali’s distinct geographical position, rich history, and cultural diversity justify its recognition as a separate division. He noted that the district, one of Bangladesh’s oldest, held historical importance during British rule, including the establishment of a major airbase and the presence of Bhulua, once the largest river port in the southern region.

He further stated that people from greater Noakhali played leading roles in key national movements such as the Khilafat, anti-British, Language, and Liberation movements, as well as recent uprisings. Despite this legacy, he lamented that the region has long suffered from administrative and developmental neglect, leaving its population disadvantaged.