Dhaka, May 16 -- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has pledged support for the longstanding demand to establish a division named "Cumilla".

He made the announcement on Saturday afternoon at a road rally at Laxmipur Bazar ground in Cumilla's Barura Upazila after BNP activists repeatedly shouted slogans demanding a separate Cumilla Division.

"If this demand for a Cumilla Division is truly the people's demand, God willing, it will be implemented," he said.

The premier also said the government would soon hold discussions with the education minister on establishing an agricultural university in Cumilla.

When Tarique arrived on the rally stage around 11:15am, supporters welcomed him with loud cheers and applause.

At the rally, Agriculture Mini...