Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Saturday hosted a reception for the winners of the Begum Rokeya Award 2025, where the awardees expressed concern over the recent attack on Sharif Osman Hadi, one of the leaders of the July Uprising.

Speaking at the reception held at the State Guest House Jamuna, the award winners said they were pleased to receive the invitation from the Chief Adviser but were deeply upset by Friday’s incident.

They urged the government to take strict action against those responsible and advised the Chief Adviser that strengthening unity among the country’s political parties and the people is essential ahead of the elections.

This year’s Begum Rokeya Award recipients - Rubhana Rakib, Nabila Idris, Kalpana Akhter, and Rituparna Chakma - were present at the reception.

“This attack (on Hadi) was pre-planned. I am in regular contact with his family and closely monitoring his treatment. I have also spoken with political parties, and they are extending their support,” Prof Yunus said.

The Chief Adviser also inquired about the workplaces and other matters concerning each of the awardees.

Kalpana Akhter, who received the award for her contribution to women’s and labour rights, especially thanked the Chief Adviser for amending the labour law and signing the labour convention.

“Amending the labour law and signing the convention are two historic steps. Thank you for accomplishing this in such a short time,” she said.

She noted that during the previous regime, she had been harassed and faced 14 cases filed against her.

The Chief Adviser described Kalpana Akhter as a strong woman who always speaks the truth and is respected worldwide.

“None of the measures that were supposed to be implemented after the Rana Plaza tragedy were carried out. Labour rights and conventions were my priority, and I tried to do as much as possible,” he said.

Prof Yunus also discussed the overall situation of the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) with researcher Dr Rubhana Rakib.

He said icddr,b and Rohingya-related programmes have been among the most affected by reductions in foreign aid, adding that the government is continuously holding discussions on the matter.

The Chief Adviser spoke with national footballer Rituparna Chakma to get an overview of the women’s football team.

He inquired about accommodation, food and training facilities, the inclusion of new players, and their performance.

Adviser for Women and Children Affairs Sharmeen S. Murshid, Principal Coordinator (SDGs Affairs) Lamia Morshed, and Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Momtaz Ahmed were also present at the event.