Whip M Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu on Saturday said democracy in the country has been restored through 17 years of struggle and sacrifice, urging all to remain vigilant in protecting it.

“Democracy achieved through blood must be safeguarded at any cost,” he said while addressing as the chief guest an Eid reunion and felicitation programme organised by the Natore District Journalists’ Association, Dhaka, at the Jatiya Press Club.

Dulu said the current government is committed to reforms in line with the July National Charter, adding that necessary changes can be implemented through parliamentary debate.

He also noted that the government remains active in ensuring people's voting rights and freedom of expression.

Highlighting development issues, the whip stressed the need for collective efforts to transform Natore into a prosperous district and to work for the welfare of the people.

Nature-3 MP Md Anwar - ul - Islam and Natore-4 MP Md Abdul Aziz also spoke at the event moderated by former health secretary Saidur Rahman.

At the programme, distinguished individuals and residents from Natore raised demands for the development of educational institutions, roads and overall infrastructure in the district.

The organisers presented the chief guest with a crest and a commemorative memento. The event was attended by leaders and members of the journalists' association, eminent personalities from Natore, and media professionals.