Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mian has assumed responsibilities of treatment and rehabilitation of two ailing children rescued from a roadside in Anwara upazila upazila in the district amid severe cold.
The DC took charge of the children on Tuesday (December 30), directing officials to ensure medical care, protection and long-term rehabilitation.
The children—a four-year-old girl, Ayesha, and her two-year-old brother, Morshed—were rescued on Sunday evening from the Majargate area of Barkhain union. According to the girl, their home is in the Moulvir Dokan area of Satkania upazila. Their parents are Khoreshed Alam and Jhinuk Akhter.
After reports of the children’s condition surfaced on social media, the DC instructed Anwara Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Tahmina Akhter to take immediate action. Following primary treatment, the children were brought to the DC’s office on Tuesday.
Despite being engaged in election-related duties, the DC reviewed the children’s physical condition and overall circumstances. Considering the younger child’s severe weakness and illness, Morshed was admitted to Chattogram General Hospital for further treatment. The DC also provided financial assistance to cover medical and immediate needs.
Officials were instructed to ensure there is no negligence in the children’s care. The DC also directed the Department of Social Services to take steps for their safety and rehabilitation.
The children were rescued by a local CNG-run auto-rickshaw driver, Mahim Uddin, who found them sitting by the roadside in the cold. His wife, Sharmin Akhter, said both children were ill and that the younger one is physically challenged. She said they bathed the children with warm water and fed them, which provided some relief.
After locals informed the administration, the district authorities moved swiftly to arrange treatment, protection and future management.
In recognition of the rescue, the DC awarded Mahim Uddin Tk 10,000 in cash. Mahim said he rescued the children out of humanitarian concern, adding that the DC’s encouragement further motivated him.
Safayet Shihab, a central member of Swapnajatri Foundation, said the DC showed compassion and sincere concern for the children. Union Parishad member Afroza Khanom said the DC’s conduct during the post-rescue process impressed those involved.
Anwara Police Station Sub-Inspector Momen Kanti Dey said the DC’s actions reflected genuine humanitarian values.
UNO Tahmina Akhter said Morshed has been admitted to Chattogram General Hospital and that a dedicated nurse has been arranged in consultation with the civil surgeon. She added that, after recovery, the child will be sent to a safe home through the Department of Social Services.
DC Zahidul Islam Mian said the administration would ensure the children are raised in a safe and secure environment with necessary support for their future.
He said, “We all naturally love our own children the most. But those who can go beyond their own children and embrace the children of others are truly human.”
