Disabled aren’t burdens: PM

Sport Correspondent: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that persons with disabilities are not burdens rather than they can play a positive role in the society.

The Prime Minister said this while addressing the inaugural function of the ICRC International T20 Cricket Tournament at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in the capital on Wednesday.

The first-ever international cricket tournament for people with physical disabilities began with hosts Bangladesh taking on England in the opening match.

The 5-nation tournament is being organized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Three other teams— from India, Pakistan and Afghanistan —are also participating in the tournament.

The ICRC International T20 Cricket Tournament for people with physical disabilities promises to give wings to the dreams of so many who are committed and determined to overcome obstacles in their lives and take the leap. It aims to help reduce stigma and discrimination associated with disability through sports, especially cricket, as it helps transform community attitudes about persons with disabilities highlighting their skills and aptitudes.

The final match of the tournament will be held at Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP) on September 10.

The event is being organised in close partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Bangladesh Cricket Board and BKSP.

Risingbd/DHAKA/ Sept 2, 2015/Yeasin/Shanewaz/Mukul