Violence Against​ Women: A Black Mark for the Country

Violence against women ⁢is on the rise in⁣ Bangladesh, with recent incidents affecting women of ‌all ages, from​ teenagers‌ to old women, and from Bengalis to minorities. This surge in violence is a cause for concern, and speakers at a human chain organized by Bangladesh Mahila Parishad​ in front of the National Press Club emphasized the need for immediate action.

Dr. Fawzia Moslem, president of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, stated that continued violence against women will be a⁣ black mark for ⁤the country in the 21st century. She expressed disappointment and worry among women⁣ campaigners and⁤ urged the government to take necessary steps to stabilize and protect​ the lives of women.

Maleka ⁤Banu, general secretary of the organization,⁢ highlighted that violence against women has affected women of all ages,⁢ regardless ⁢of⁣ their place, gender, and caste. She emphasized that the deterioration of the law and order situation, along with the country’s governing system, has resulted in women bearing the brunt of the consequences. Banu demanded the establishment of the rule of‍ law by changing the law and order situation to⁤ prevent violence against women.

Other speakers, including Dr.⁤ Makhduma Nargis Ratna, vice president ⁢of the organization, Seema Moslem, joint secretary general, and Rekha Saha, legal aid editor,⁣ emphasized the need for fundamental changes in people’s attitudes, awareness, and thinking. They pointed out that despite changes in the country’s power structure, the culture of⁤ lawlessness in the law and order system has ⁢led to a degrading, discriminatory, and hateful attitude towards women.

The speakers stressed that real development⁤ is not possible if 50 percent of the country’s population does not stop violence against women. They called for making the country democratic,⁤ humane, and equal for men and women, emphasizing that women’s ⁤rights are human rights.