Education Minister Apologises to Students Over ‘Farm Chickens’ Remark
Dr. A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon said he did not intend to hurt anyone and apologised if his comment caused offence.
Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr. A N M. Ehsanul Haque Milon has apologised in the National Parliament for referring to students as "farm chickens" during a private phone conversation that later spread on social media.
The minister expressed regret during the budget session of the National Parliament at around 7:30 pm on Tuesday, July 14. He said many people had objected to his personal remarks. He added that he did not make the comment to target anyone or with the intention of hurting anyone. However, he said he sincerely apologised if his statement had caused offence.
After the minister made his apology, lawmakers present in the session welcomed his remarks by thumping their desks.
The controversy began on Monday night after a video of a mobile phone conversation between the minister and an examinee circulated on social media. In the recording, he was heard saying, "They are farm chickens; they will get a fever if they get a little wet in the rain."
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The comment quickly drew widespread criticism online and sparked public discussion.
On Tuesday, students held demonstrations at different locations across the capital. They protested against the decision to continue the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations despite adverse weather conditions. They also criticised the minister's remarks and demanded that students be treated with respect.
The incident has drawn attention across Bangladesh as concerns continue over examination arrangements during severe weather. The government's handling of the issue and any further response are expected to remain under public scrutiny.