UNO Tanzeela Tasnim Draws Attention for Addressing Minister as ‘Sir’ 25 Times in 90-Second Speech

Tanzeela Tasnim, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Rajarhat in Kurigram, has drawn attention on social media after reportedly addressing Disaster Management and Relief Minister Professor Asadul Habib Dulu as “sir” 25 times during a speech lasting about 90 seconds. A video of her remarks circulated on social media on Thursday, October 22, prompting discussion.

Tasnim delivered the speech on Wednesday, October 21, at a saree distribution programme for underprivileged members of the Harijan, Ravidas and Bede communities. Organised by the Kurigram district administration, the event was held at the premises of the Harisabha Cultural Durga Temple in Baidyer Bazar, Rajarhat. Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu attended as the chief guest. More than 100 sarees were distributed at the event.

During her address, Tasnim highlighted the need to establish a surveyor college in Rajarhat. She said the government was placing greater emphasis on technical education and that skilled personnel were needed for various land-related activities. Establishing such a college in Rajarhat, she said, would benefit people across northern Bangladesh. She urged the minister to raise a proposal on the matter before the Cabinet at an appropriate time.

The UNO also expressed gratitude to the minister for inaugurating an administrative building in Rajarhat and providing gifts for members of the Harijan community. Praising an initiative to package Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) rice in sacks, she said the measure was expected to reduce difficulties previously encountered during the loading and unloading of rice.

Tasnim also thanked the minister on behalf of government employees in connection with the ninth pay scale, saying the initiative could help boost their motivation at work.

She had previously attracted public attention in December 2025, when she was serving as the UNO of Cox’s Bazar. At that time, allegations emerged that she had threatened to arrest a tourist while claiming to be an official of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The incident also prompted public debate.

Those attending Wednesday’s programme included Kurigram Deputy Commissioner Annapurna Debnath, Superintendent of Police Fazle Rabbi, district and local BNP leaders, administrative officials and other local dignitaries.

Although Tasnim’s speech covered proposals for technical education, government initiatives and issues affecting public employees, the reported 25 uses of “sir” in approximately 90 seconds have become the main focus of the latest discussion.