In a moving act of compassion, Meherpur Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Khairul Islam has become a beacon of hope for Medina Khatun, a 64-year-old widow facing extreme poverty after the death of her only son. Once supported solely by her son, Medina’s life plunged into hardship following his passing. With a young granddaughter, daughter and widowed daughter-in-law to support, Medina now wanders from door to door in search of food.
For 35 years, she has lived on a piece of khas land in Police Line Para of Meherpur town. Her son, Keramat Ali, had been the family’s only earning member. Since his untimely death, Medina and her family have struggled for survival—her elderly hands still labour in the fields, while her daughter-in-law endures harsh physical work to bring home meagre earnings.
The family’s heartbreaking condition came to public attention through local journalists, prompting UNO Khairul Islam to visit Medina’s home along with Project Implementation Officer Saidur Rahman. Moved by her plight, the UNO provided immediate food and cash assistance. He also pledged long-term support, including a new home and medical aid, after reviewing her eligibility under government schemes.
“This is not just about development projects,” said UNO Khairul Islam. “True administrative success lies in bringing a smile to the face of someone like Medina. We will stand beside her in every way we can.”
District Social Services Officer Sohel Mahmud assured further assistance under the social safety net programs, calling on affluent citizens to support such families.
Local residents praised the UNO’s humanitarian gesture, saying, “If all officials acted this way, no Medina Khatun would be left to suffer in silence.”
