Call to stop political violence against women

To mark her 127th birth anniversary, different socio-cultural and women's rights organisations arranged various programmes including discussion, rally, human chain and cultural function across the country.

The Rokeya Hall of Dhaka University (DU) brought out a colourful procession in the morning which was participated by hundreds of students, house tutors and teachers.

It was led by Provost Prof Tajmeri S A Islam.

Karmojibi Nari, an initiative for working women, formed human chain at Muktangon in the capital with a call to stop political violence on women, ban on fatwa (Islamic verdicts) and ensure the right of women to cast vote safely.

Speaking on the occasion, Shirin Akhter, president of the organisation, said women across the country are passing through a critical situation.

"Women are becoming victims of political violence and fatwabaz. They are not allowed to cast votes according to their wishes," she added.

Shirin urged all to launch a movement being imbued with the spirit of Begum Rokeya in order to establish the rights and freedom of women.

Rokeya Rafik, executive director, Mahmuda Imam, director, and other members of the organisation also spoke on the occasion.

Bachte Shekho Nari, another organisation of women, held a discussion at its office in the capital chaired by its President Firoza Begum.

The speakers said it was very difficult for Begum Rokeya to play the lead role for the education of Muslim women hundred years ago.

Biplobi Nari Sanghati brought out a procession carrying placards with a call for a democratic constitution promoting the political right of women after placing wreath at the memorial to Begum Rokeya at the Rokeya Hall.

Women For Women, a research and study group, also organised a discussion highlighting various activities and achievements of Begum Rokeya. It was chaired by its President Dr Mahmuda Islam.

Nari Maitree formed a human chain with the slogan 'Freedom of women to be earned by women themselves' on the occasion.

Citibank, N.A. Bangladesh also observed the day at its Gulshan office by arranging a book presentation ceremony to leading girls' schools and colleges.

Nurjahan Begum, editor of the magazine 'Begum', attended the programme as chief guest.

"Citibank has taken the initiative to reiterate its commitment to support girls' education and women empowerment," said Citygroup Country Officer Bangladesh Mamun Rashid.

Speaking as guest of honour, Canadian High Commissioner in Dhaka Barbara Richardson highlighted the importance of people like Begum Rokeya in the advancement of society.

Representatives of different educational institutions including Pairabondh Begum Rokeya Smriti College of Rangpur, Mymensingh Girls' Cadet College, Bogra Govt Girls' High School, Nawab Faizunnesa Govt Girls' High School of Comilla, Viqarunnisa Noon School and College and Badrunnesa College of Dhaka also attended the function.

Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, The Witness, Samajtantrik Chhatra Front and Pritilata Sangsad of Eden College and Narigrantha Prabartana also organised discussions and rallies to mark the occasion.