NCP, Hefazat’s Misogyny Sparks Half a Hundred Organizations’ Women’s Solidarity March

Staff Reporter

Extremist organizations such as Hefazat-e-Islam and NCP have been accused of spreading propaganda, slander, and degrading remarks against women. These incidents have reportedly taken place openly, with no response from the government or administration.

In protest, a “Women’s Solidarity March” is being held today, Friday, at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital. The event, protesting violence and derogatory remarks against women, has garnered support from 50 progressive organizations.

Participants include leaders from women’s rights groups, student associations, cultural organizations, labor unions, and professional bodies, alongside members of progressive political, social, and cultural organizations. Organizers believe this event, marked by significant participation from women of various backgrounds, represents a milestone in the women’s movement following the July protests.

Details of the march were shared during a press conference at Dhaka Reporters Unity in Segunbagicha on Thursday. The event was organized jointly by participating groups.

Seema Dutta, President of the Women’s Liberation Center, highlighted that women played courageous leadership roles during the July-August mass movement. However, patriarchal systems have since capitalized on weak law enforcement to intensify oppression against women.

She stated that despite ongoing anti-discrimination movements, disparities persist. Religious organizations continue to make disparaging remarks against women. She also noted that incidents of violence, harassment, and abuse against women have risen alarmingly over the past nine months.

The event’s slogan, “We Unite for Collective Liberation,” emphasizes solidarity across gender, religion, class, and profession to demand justice and equality.

The press conference featured activists including Mosharrafa Mishu, Mohan Raihan, Jolly Talukder, Rebeka Soren, Rukhsana Afroze Asha, Marzia Prova, Suraiya Parveen, Amirun Nuzhat Monisha, Naushin Mustarin Sathi, and Oni Anjum.