Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday said that the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP) played a commendable role in holding the 13th National Parliament Election, held in February 12 this year, in a free, fair and impartial manner.

He made these remarks in a message issued on the eve of the celebration of the 46th National Rally 2026 of the Bangladesh Ansar and VDP.

The premier extended his heartfelt congratulations and warm greetings to all officers, employees and the fearless Ansar-VDP members at the grassroots level of the force, while paying humble tribute to the 670 martyrs of this force who sacrificed their lives in the Liberation War.

He mentioned that the timely role of the members of this force in every national need is remarkable and congratulated every member at all levels for their responsible contribution.

The Prime Minister stated that after more than one and a half decades of fascist rule, Bangladesh has embarked on the path of democracy.

He added that the current democratic government is working to institutionalize democracy by establishing equality, human dignity, and social justice in the country.

In this journey toward building a self-reliant, humane, and secured Bangladesh, he noted that the importance of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party is immense.

He mentioned that this force is inspired by the proud declaration of Shaheed President and proclaimer of independence Ziaur Rahman, “Our hands are millions of weapons; our commitment is to build the nation.”

Founded on the ideals of public defense and social development, the force has established a strong bridge extending to the grassroots level across the country.

According to the Prime Minister, the Ansar-VDP is working as an inseparable part of the government in building a secure social structure in villages and cities, ensuring the fundamental rights of ordinary people and implementing various service-oriented activities.

He said that through the involvement of the dedicated volunteer members of Ansar-VDP, it is possible to effectively utilize its extensive nationwide network in activities such as tree plantation.

He added that Ansar and VDP can also play an immense role in implementing unique initiatives such as canal excavation for science-based environmental protection and agricultural economic development, flood protection in remote disaster-prone areas, water resource planning, food security for the general public during disasters, and rehabilitation efforts.

The premier highlighted that more than 52,000 embedded Ansar members are tirelessly working to ensure security at important state establishments, including industries, hospitals, and financial institutions, which serve as the lifelines of the economy.

Tarique Rahman emphasized that his government believes the youth are the source of strength.

He stated that the demand-based training and inclusive initiatives undertaken by Ansar and VDP to develop young people not merely as manpower but as skilled entrepreneurs deserve appreciation.

The Prime Minister expressed his hope that the Ansar-VDP will play an effective supporting role in building a productive state and society by involving ordinary people in this new model of self-reliance and employment generation.

He also expressed optimism that, inspired by patriotism, the proud members of the force will transform every village in Bangladesh into a center of socio-economic development.

Tarique Rahman wished that the courage and dedication of the force become the driving force for building a safe, discrimination-free, and justice-based society.

He concluded by wishing continued prosperity for the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party, expressing his full confidence in their brave and effective role in the sacred responsibility of nation-building.