Women's rights organization Naripokkho has demanded the inclusion of Birangona women (female warriors) who have been dropped from the Liberation War list.
The demand by the organization was made during the unveiling of a poster titled "50 Years of Independence, Birangana's Neglect - Let's End Insults" in an online program on Tuesday.
Mahmuda Begum Guinea, president of Naripokkho, said the poster is dedicated to the Birangonas, who suffered rape and sexual violence by the Pakistan Army during the Liberation War in 1971.
The poster calls for an end to the abuse and neglect of Birangonas, she added.
She also urged the government to enlist the Birangona women who have been left out of the list of freedom fighters and provide all kinds of financial and social security to live with respect.
At the event, the organizer presented a documentary on the female warriors to define their current living conditions and their expectations from the government.
Meherzan Kurigram, who was declined from the freedom fighter list said: "No one has recognized us yet. I went to the district commissioner (DC) and told him about our terrible living condition but no arrangement was made to help me.”
On one hand, we are being neglected by society and on the other hand, we can’t afford food and medical treatment. Proper recognition would help us get the facilities, she added.
Echoing the same statements, Monuwara Begum and Rizia Begum from Patuakhali, said no one kept their promises after taking down their information.
They also urged the prime minister to enlist them on the freedom fighter list before their death.
However, Anwayra Begum From Patuakhali, Asma Begum from Kurigram, Vanu Begum from Sirajganj, who have been recognized as freedom fighters and gets financial support from the government, said: “We used to feel bad before. Now, we can introduce ourselves as freedom fighters and it makes us proud.”
The three young women artists, who have designed the poster, also shared their opinions on how and why they created the poster.
Artist Sumayita Mahnur said: “We tried to create a positive perspective about our female warriors on the poster so that they can easily share their experience and views from a strong platform.”
We also tried to express their eagerness, emotions and feelings, respectfully to extend support to the Biranganas in any form, she added.
