Narir Daake Maitree Jatra' voices against deep-seated patriarchal structures

In a powerful display of solidarity, thousands of women from diverse walks of life-workers, students, teachers, cultural activists, and professionals- participated in the 'Narir Daake Maitree Jatra' (March for Women's Solidarity) at Manik Mia Avenue in capital Dhaka on Friday.

The event began with rendition of the national anthem and the formal reading of a declaration calling for a united movement to uphold social justice for women, inspired by the spirit of the historic July Uprising.

Organised independently by a collective of women with no political or institutional affiliation, the march demanded visibility, safety, and justice for women and marginalised communities across the country.

Participants carried placards and chanted slogans emphasising equality, inclusion, and dignity for all, sending a strong message against entrenched patriarchal structures and systemic discrimination.

A highlight of the event was the proclamation delivered by three female members of the families of the July Uprising martyrs.

In their statement, the marchers urged the interim government to fulfill its constitutional obligations by taking firm action against all forms of violence, misinformation, and harassment faced by women and other marginalised communities.

They also called on political parties to clarify their positions regarding the full political, economic, and personal freedom of women, workers, and minority communities-warning that electoral support would be contingent upon these commitments. Among their key demands was the nomination of at least 33 per cent of parliamentary candidates from women in the upcoming national elections.

The proclamation emphasised the need to build a democratic, inclusive, and anti-discriminatory society where the rights and dignity of all citizens are upheld.

The speakers voiced deep concern over the ongoing structural violence, sexual harassment, social exclusion, and intimidation still faced by women and marginalised groups, even after the promises of the July Uprising.

Criticising the organised campaign of misinformation against the state-initiated Women's Reform Commission, the declaration highlighted that despite the commission's submission of 433 proposals aimed at improving the lives of working-class and marginalised women, many recommendations were either distorted or deliberately ignored.

The all-female-member of the commission, it said, were subjected to personal attacks and character assassination-a practice the marchers unequivocally condemned.

The rally also urged the interim government to take immediate measures to improve education, healthcare, and socio-economic conditions for disadvantaged groups. Among other demands were equal pay, legal recognition of women's rights to land and property, protection of sex workers and gender-diverse individuals, and justice for survivors of violence.

After the rally, participants marched towards Khamarbari in a spirited procession before returning to Manik Mia Avenue, where the event concluded with resounding chants for justice, equality, and an end to gender-based violence and discrimination.

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