On February 22, 2024, at 3:00 PM in front of the National Museum in Shahbag, Dhaka, Bangladesh, a human chain program was organized by the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (BMP) in protest against incidents of sexual harassment towards students of Dhaka University and various other universities.
The event was led by the President of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, Dr. Fauzia Moslem. The event was attended by the Joint General Secretary of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, Shima Moslem and Adv. Masuda Rehana Begum, Movement Secretary Rabeya Khatun Shanti, Legal Aid Secretary of Dhaka Metropolitan Committee Shamima Afroze Irin, and Lobby Director Adv. Jana Goswami.
Dr. Fauzia Moslem, the President, stated that incidents of sexual harassment occurring repeatedly in various educational institutions have put the education sector of Bangladesh in a critical state, jeopardizing the safety of students. Despite the leadership role played by educational institutions like Dhaka University during the liberation war of ’71, there has been no visible protest from students against sexual violence. She urged the entire society to be vigilant against incidents of sexual harassment in educational institutions, calling for an end to all forms of misconduct, political interference, establishment of the rule of law, and treating disrespect towards women as social disgrace. She also emphasized the need for the independent functioning of the Sexual Harassment Prevention Committee established in accordance with the directives of the High Court.
Leaders of various organizations expressed strong condemnation and protest against the recent incident of sexual harassment at a renowned educational institution. They highlighted that such incidents of sexual violence by teachers against students are a matter of concern for the entire country. They emphasized the need for safe educational environments and effective prevention committees in universities. They also called for strict actions against perpetrators, including legal consequences and dismissal from their positions. The leaders urged for immediate implementation of court orders and advocated for a law enforcement approach to combat sexual harassment. They encouraged everyone to stand up against such crimes and work towards creating a safer society.
The event was attended by members of the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, the Secretarial team, journalists from print and electronic media, and organization staffs.
The program was led by senior lawyer, Acting Director, Legal Advocacy & lobby, Dipti Shikdar.
