An elderly man named Inu Mia reportedly fulfilled a long-standing vow after nearly 17 years of abstaining from rice, as he had promised not to eat it until the BNP came to power.
The 80-year-old, known locally as a strong supporter of the BNP, finally ate rice at his home in Ramdi Union’s West Jagtchar village in Kuliarchar upazila of Kishoreganj district. The moment marked the end of his long personal pledge.
On April 14, during Pahela Baishakh, State Minister for Textiles and Jute, Md. Shariful Alam, also the MP for Kishoreganj-6 (Bhairab–Kuliarchar), visited Inu Mia’s village residence. The minister personally fed him rice, bringing an end to his 17-year rice abstinence.
It is reported that Inu Mia had been surviving on items such as bananas, bread, biscuits, and other dry food during this period. His vow was widely known in the area.
Locals said he had taken the pledge following political disappointment during the 2008 national election period, stating he would not eat rice until the BNP returned to power. Despite efforts from his family and relatives, he reportedly refused to break his promise.
During the visit, Inu Mia was welcomed with flowers by the minister, who also presented him with a floral garland in return. The minister expressed respect for his devotion and said that they would make further efforts to support him, including housing assistance and an old-age allowance card.
Local BNP leaders and law enforcement officials were also present during the event.
Inu Mia, who once worked as an agricultural laborer, is now unable to work due to a leg injury from a road accident. He has three children and lives with his family in financial hardship.
