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Loud slogans and cultural events call for an end to violence against women |

Loud slogans and cultural events call for an end to violence against women |

Photos: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

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Loud slogans and cultural events call for an end to violence against women

Photos: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

When I stepped into the Central Shaheed Minar late in the afternoon, I was greeted by the joyful and inclusive atmosphere of feminists from all corners of the city and perhaps even beyond. Most were decked out in orange and red saris, apparently in keeping with the theme of the day. Some were even in work mode, going live on social media platforms to share updates on behalf of their organizations.

The meeting, which included 51 human rights-focused NGOs, came together on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The origin of this day goes back to the sacrifices of “Las Mariposas” (The Butterflies), better known as the Mirabal sisters. The United Nations General Assembly designated November 25 in their honor to commemorate these brave women who stood against the tyranny of Rafael Trujillo in the Dominican Republic in 1960.

In Bangladesh, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women committee has historically celebrated the day with a specific theme every year. This year they organized the celebration around the theme of “Bicharer Naame Obichar Hoi, Nari Kothao Nirapod Noy” (In the name of justice, injustice reigns, women are not safe anywhere).

Organizations and individuals attending the meeting used the platform to speak out about the oppression women face every day. When our ordinary women face untold obstacles at home and abroad associated with forms of violence and torture such as sexual harassment and rape, they are unintentionally marginalized and victimized through no fault of their own. That’s why human rights spokespeople have come together today to call on governments, organizations and society to prioritize preventing and addressing all forms of abuse, ensuring strong action, effective safeguards and fair trials for offenders.

During the event, they specifically highlighted five demands that every individual must comply with for the well-being of the other half of our population. These directives require the government and administration to take decisive and effective measures to prevent and address all forms of harassment, abuse and violence against women; Authorities should act decisively against violence against women and ensure that perpetrators are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted; careful reporting of incidents of violence against women to the authorities in order to increase social resistance; Encouraging the media to be more sensitive to women’s issues and ensuring impartial and accurate news is published; and respecting the dignity of female victims, we help social media users identify perpetrators and ensure they are handed over to the authorities.

Tamanna Khan, Nari Maitree member and one of the main organisers, said, “We gathered today to demand fair punishment for those who commit violence against women. In the name of justice, injustice must end. Women are beaten or treated like pawns.” At the slightest sign of disorder, this is unacceptable. “We demand that women be treated equally in all areas of life.”

The event began with enthusiastic hymns and continued with powerful readings, performance arts, protest songs and dance presentations by organizations and individuals such as Jibon Unnayan Songstha, Bonhishikha, Naripokkho, Karmojibi Nari, Proshika, Warda Ashraf and Iqbal Ahmed.

A notable moment was the rap song “Thambe Kobe” performed in a unique way by the committee. Participants also had the opportunity to participate in a live art session. The day ended with a torchlight procession to Mishuk-Munir Chattar, uniting everyone in the common cause.