Dhaka-6 candidates vow collective steps to curb cyberbullying 

With the national election approaching, candidates and representatives from five political parties in Dhaka-6 constituency have pledged to work together to prevent cyberbullying and online harassment targeting women, calling it a growing threat to political participation and public safety.

The commitment came today (30 November) at a cross-party dialogue titled "Consensus Building Dialogue on Political Harmony", organised by Democracy International and the Multiparty Advocacy Forum (MAF) at the National Press Club.

Nominees and party representatives for the constituency, including Jamaat-e-Islami's candidate Muhammad Abdul Mannan, Gono Odhikar Parishad's Md Fokhrul Islam, and NCP's nomination aspirant Khan Muhammad Mursalin, vowed to collectively curb online harassment against women. 

The pledge was also echoed by BNP Dhaka South City unit Office Secretary Saidur Rahman Mintu and Ganosamhati Andolan leader Golam Mustafa, who spoke on behalf of BNP nominee Ishraque Hossain and Ganosamhati Andolan candidate Abu Bakar Ripon, respectively.

Jamaat's Abdul Mannan said, "No society can move forward by disrespecting women. Women are active across all levels of our party, and ensuring their dignity and safety is our responsibility. Any harmful behaviour toward women is unacceptable."

NCP's Khan Muhammad Mursalin emphasised the social dimension of the issue. "Cyberbullying is not just a legal offence—it is a deep social disease. Laws alone cannot solve it; we must rebuild a safety net that protects women both online and offline," he said.

Representing Ishraque Hossain, Saidur Rahman Mintu said, "Regardless of which party wins, the women of our community deserve respect and protection. We stand united in eliminating bullying and harmful behaviour toward women."

Gono Odhikar Parishad's Md Fokhrul Islam said the harsh reality of online harassment pushed him back into political activism. "This country will not change until women can live and move safely," he said.

Speakers also noted that political competition on social media has increased online hostility, and women -- whether voters, activists, journalists or candidates are facing disproportionate harassment.

They stressed the need for political tolerance, responsible campaigning, and collective action to discourage supporters from engaging in gender-based harassment.

Organisers said the initiative aims to model cooperation at the constituency level and promote voter safety and democratic practices throughout the election period.