In the remote char areas of Rajibpur Upazila, Kurigram, a group of young volunteers is conducting a unique campaign to raise awareness about the upcoming referendum and to encourage people to vote ‘Yes’. Ignoring the challenges of difficult terrain, unpaved roads, and limited communication, they are visiting villages, farmers’ fields, workers’ workplaces, and households to explain the importance of the referendum.

During the campaign, the young volunteers use simple language to explain what a referendum is, why it is important, and how citizens can directly express their opinions in shaping state decisions through it. They emphasize that this initiative is not affiliated with any political party or group; rather, it aims to uphold citizens’ rights and ensure public participation in determining the future of Bangladesh. Posters, leaflets, and face-to-face discussions are being used to encourage people to vote ‘Yes’ in the referendum.

Md. Zahidul Islam, one of the campaign organizers, said that people in the char areas have long remained distant from major state decisions. He noted, “This vote is not for any party or individual. It is an opportunity for people to directly express their opinion on what kind of Bangladesh we want in the future. We want to convey that every vote from the char areas is equally valuable.”

Another organizer, Robiul Islam, said that many people do not pay much attention to the referendum due to a lack of clear understanding. “Therefore, campaigning solely in urban centers is not enough. Reaching out directly and explaining to people in their own language is the most effective way,” he explained. “When we sit with farmers and laborers, they understand quickly. When they realize that a ‘Yes’ vote represents consent for a new, just Bangladesh, interest naturally develops.”

Sujon Mahmud, another organizer, emphasized that although the initiative is led by youth, the aim is to involve people from all walks of life. He explained that they are traveling on foot, by van, and motorcycle to reach remote char areas. “We want people to express their opinion without fear or hesitation. Voting ‘Yes’ in the referendum is our main goal, as it strengthens citizens’ rights and stands for the Bangladesh envisioned by our martyrs,” he said.

During the campaign, residents from various professions have shared their growing interest and expectations regarding the referendum. Abdul Malek, a farmer from Rajibpur char, said, “We work in the fields and often do not understand major decisions. These young people have come and explained the referendum in simple terms. Now I feel that even my single vote is important for the country.”

Daily laborer Rafiqul Islam added, “We liked that this is not a party vote. If it benefits our future, we will certainly vote ‘Yes’.” Local boatman Majnu Mia mentioned, “People in the char areas are often left out of mainstream discussions. I didn’t know much about the referendum before, but now I realize that participating will let our voices reach the state.”

From the organizers’ statements and the responses of the local people, it is clear that this campaign in Rajibpur’s remote areas is not merely a call to vote; it is a movement to strengthen citizens’ rights and democratic practice through awareness of the referendum. The organizers hope that this initiative will help the people of the char areas understand the importance of the referendum, participate actively, and clearly express their opinions in shaping the future of the country.