Dhaka-9: Tasnim Jara pledges solutions for gas, water, health, education, and safety in manifesto

Ahead of the upcoming national parliamentary election, Dhaka-9 independent candidate Tasnim Jara has unveiled her election manifesto.

Competing under the 'Football' symbol, she has prioritised addressing gas shortages, waterlogging, healthcare, security, education, employment, and MP accountability in her manifesto.

In a Facebook post today (24 January), Tasnim Jara said although Dhaka-9 is the heart of the city, the area has long suffered negligence. 

She added that even though residents pay taxes and utility bills similar to those living in tri-state areas, they receive low graded services. "The state sees us only as a source of revenue, but practices extreme discrimination when it comes to providing services."

Firm stance on gas, roads, and waterlogging

Labeling the gas shortage a 'scam,' she said it is unacceptable that residents are charged bills despite not receiving gas supply. 

She pledged to propose a law in parliament supporting a 'No Service, No Bill' policy. She also promised to break the LPG syndicate to ensure fair gas prices, implement modern drainage systems, clear canals and drains before the monsoon, and enforce timely road repairs.

Major reforms in healthcare

Highlighting the strain on Mugda Medical College Hospital, she described having a single large hospital for 700,000-800,000 people as a "cruel joke." The manifesto pledges adequate staffing, modern equipment, and upgrading community clinics into "mini hospitals."

She also proposed establishing a permanent mosquito control taskforce to work year-round to combat dengue.

Security and anti-drug measures

Pointing to reports of drug syndicates taking over local streets, she said that after sunset, many areas have become unsafe for women and children. 

The manifesto promises to create "safe corridors" near schools, colleges, and garment factories, install CCTV, and ensure proper street lighting. 

It also pledges strict action against drug dealers while providing treatment for addicts.

Education and youth development

Criticising admission corruption and frequent policy changes, she said students have been turned into "exam subjects." 

She pledged that as an MP, she will make no recommendations for quotas or special favours. 

The manifesto also promises modern science labs, libraries, coding and AI education, mental health programmes, and parent-teacher forums.

Employment and women's participation

On the economic front, the manifesto proposes a 'Start-up Dhaka-9' fund for young entrepreneurs, loans without collateral, and e-commerce training for local business owners. 

For working women, it pledges community day-care centers in every ward.

MP accountability commitment

Tasnim emphasised that she is "not a passing guest." If elected, she will open a permanent office in the constituency within a month, providing evening services. 

She also plans to launch a digital open dashboard for complaint resolution.

Concluding her manifesto, Tasnim Zara addressed voters, saying that this is not an empty promise but a contract with the residents. 

She added, "As a doctor, I know where the illness is and what the medicine should be. Now give me a chance."