BNP leaders demanded a prompt election and warned that the country’s image might be damaged, if the interim government fails to take strict measures against recent violence on women and children.
Speakers made these comments at an event organized by Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal at the University of Dhaka's TSC on Saturday, from 11am to 3pm, in celebration of International Women's Day under the slogan, “Indomitable Women, Invincible in Strength”.
Selima Rahman, a member of BNP's standing committee, questioned why the government is unable to take strict measures, in the child and women abuse.
"If you (interim govt) cannot take a truly strong stance, then hold the election quickly," she added.
She highlighted the importance of women's unity and raising their voices together to achieve the "equality, rights, and development" being discussed on Saturday.
Salahuddin Ahmed, another member of BNP's standing committee and the chief guest of this event, urged the interim government to suppress recent violence on women and children strictly.
He said: "The alarming rise in violence against women and children in Bangladesh, if not addressed immediately, will harm the country's image both domestically and internationally."
Referring to women's movements during the early 20th century, Rakibul Islam Bakul, student affairs secretary of BNP, said that on this day when women had fought for their right to vote, we are demanding that right to vote from this interim government, from this event.
"May he (Chief adviser) promptly announce a specific date for elections. By announcing the election date, he will provide an opportunity for forming a democratic government," he added.
Additional speakers emphasized the need to remain united in the matters of child and women abuse,
Referring to an 8-year-old child being raped and admitted to DMCH (Dhaka Medical College Hospital), DU Pro-VC Sayema Haque Bidisha said: “We have to remain united in these matters.”
"There should essentially be zero tolerance for these kinds of issues, when we talk about violence against women and children," she added.
Khadijatul Kubra, who was imprisoned for 14 months under the Digital Security Act after hosting a Facebook webinar in 2020 where a guest allegedly made controversial remarks, and whose multiple bail applications were denied during her detention, was also present in this event.
Referring to 8 months being passed after the fall of Awami regime, Kubra said: “Despite having solid proof, no one (accused) is being prosecuted.”
She also mentioned the Digital Security Act is not being abolished.
She said: “We appointed students as advisers by trusting them. If Asif Nazrul sir cannot deliver justice in these matters, sir, you should step down.”
At the event, there were book stalls from 14 renowned publishers of Bangladesh, and the publishers sold books at a 25% discount for the occasion. The venue also featured 10 stalls for women entrepreneurs from Dhaka University.
