Physically challenged graduate Gious lives on begging

Fighting odds like congenital physical challenge and family poverty, Gious Uddin achieved a bachelor degree 16 years ago.

But life seems too hard for the 38-year-old man, hailing from a poor family of Kalapara town in the district, as he has to beg for survival.

Unable to walk on foot, he often moves on a rickshaw, begging mostly at the gates of different government and non-government offices in different areas.

”I passed the SSC examinations in 1996, HSC in 2000 and Bachelor of Arts in 2002. For continuation of education, I took help from relatives and neighbours and worked as a tutor,” said Gious.

“I submitted application for job in different government and non-government offices but failed to get one despite facing interview 12 times. Although I am a graduate, I didn't get job under the government's quota for the disabled,” he said.

“I don't want to beg. I want a job or help to do any business so that I don't have to beg,” said Gious, talking with this correspondent in front of Patuakhali Sadar upazila sub-registry office a few days ago.                                

He expressed desire to meet Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to tell his plights.