Popular actress Sadia Ayman has criticised the tendency on social media to view women’s success and independence negatively, speaking out against the trolling and derogatory comments surrounding the recently launched pink bus service for women.
In a Facebook post, Sadia said the controversy was not really about the bus, its colour or its name, but about the narrow mindset of a section of society.
According to the actress, there is still a reluctance to accept successful, independent and self-reliant women as a normal part of society.
Referring to the negative comments about the “pink bus”, Sadia described the initiative as “cute and pookie” and urged people to see it as a symbol of women’s hard work and enterprise.
She also called for respect towards the women working in and managing the service.
The actress urged her followers not to give undue importance to negative criticism and instead support initiatives aimed at public welfare.
Her comments have received praise on social media, while also prompting renewed discussion about the social attitudes that continue to create barriers for women seeking greater independence.
The pink bus service was recently introduced for women in Dhaka and several other parts of the country.
The initiative aims to provide women with safer and more comfortable public transport, particularly helping working women and students reduce commuting difficulties and risks of harassment.
The service also includes women drivers, helpers and management, with women passengers given priority.
While the initiative has received a positive response from many commuters, some social media users have mocked the colour and name of the buses.
Sadia’s comments come amid this online debate, with the actress making her support for efforts to promote women’s independence and participation in public life clear.
