Various programmes, including rallies, human chains, discussions and community events, were held across several districts on Sunday to mark International Women’s Day, with participants calling for stronger protection of women’s rights, safety and equal opportunities.
Speakers at the events said the observance of the day should go beyond symbolic programmes and translate into concrete actions to end violence against women, prevent child marriage and ensure social and economic empowerment for women and girls.
Narail
In Narail, female freedom fighter Aparna Rani Biswas was honoured as a “Ratnagorva” mother for raising three accomplished children and her contribution to society.
Biswas joined the Liberation War in 1971 as a student and later served wounded freedom fighters after receiving training at a women’s camp in India.
Despite financial hardship, she ensured higher education for her children, who now hold prominent professional positions.
She has received several recognitions, including the Joyita Award and honours as a successful mother and woman role model.
Barishal
In Barishal, a human chain and rally were held in front of Ashwini Kumar Hall on Sadar Road at around 10:30am.
The programmes were organised by the Combined International Women’s Day Celebration Council Barishal, with participation from several organisations including the Social Resistance Committee, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, Shachetan Nagorik Committee (Sanak) and Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust.
Speakers said every year people hope that the Women’s Day observance will lead to greater protection for women, but violence and insecurity remain widespread.
The rally later marched through key roads in the city and ended at the Central Shaheed Minar.
Magura
In Magura, the day was observed under the theme “Today’s action for tomorrow’s justice: ensure the rights of women and girls”.
A rally and discussion meeting were organised by the district administration and the Department of Women Affairs.
The discussion was held at the deputy commissioner’s office. Participants highlighted issues such as violence against women, dowry, child marriage and women’s empowerment.
Separately, the Association of Development Agencies in Bangladesh (ADAB) Magura chapter also organised a rally and discussion programme in front of the district stadium.
Meherpur
In Meherpur, a procession was organised by the district administration and the Department of Women Affairs in the morning.
Deputy Commissioner Syed Enamul Kabir led the procession from the deputy commissioner’s office premises.
Satkhira
In Satkhira, the day was observed through a series of programmes focusing on the rights and dignity of coastal women.
The programmes were organised by the development organisation Prerana with support from Plan International Bangladesh at the Sundarbans Museum in Shyamnagar Upazila.
Participants included local residents, members of the Munda indigenous community, young people and civil society representatives.
A colourful rally was held carrying placards and posters calling for gender equality, women’s rights and prevention of child marriage.
The programme also included cultural performances and experience-sharing sessions highlighting the struggles of women living in coastal areas affected by climate change, poverty and social inequality.
Jhalakathi
In Jhalakathi, a discussion meeting was organised at the district administration conference hall under the theme “Today’s steps for tomorrow’s justice: ensure the rights of women and girls”.
Deputy Director of the Department of Women Affairs Dilara Khanam chaired the meeting, while Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education and ICT) Shakila Rahman attended as the chief guest.
Additional Police Superintendent Mohammad Saiful Islam and Upazila Executive Officer Segufta Mehnaz were present as special guests.
Speakers said women’s empowerment and equal opportunities are essential for building a more inclusive society.
Joypurhat
Meanwhile, in Joypurhat, International Women’s Day was marked by rallies, discussion meetings and an entrepreneurs’ fair.
A discussion meeting was held at the district collectorate conference hall organised jointly by the district administration and the Department of Women Affairs.
The meeting, chaired by Deputy Director Layla Nasrin Jahan, was attended by Deputy Commissioner Md Al Mamun Mia as the chief guest.
Officials and women leaders highlighted the importance of ensuring justice, safety and economic empowerment for women.
A women entrepreneurs’ fair was also organised on the deputy commissioner’s office premises, while the municipality arranged a rally and discussion meeting in the morning.
