Safe nation not possible without women's inclusion in politics, society: Tarique Rahman

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has asserted that establishing a safe nation is impossible if women are excluded from politics and the national mainstream.

"In every struggle against fascism to protect independence and establish democracy, women have sacrificed their lives alongside men. At least 10 women were martyred in the July uprising alone," he said today (31 July) at an event titled "Women's Contribution to the Anti-Fascist Movement" held at the Shaheed Abu Sayeed Auditorium in Dhaka.

"To assess a woman's struggle merely by casualty numbers would be an injustice to their sacrifice," he added.

Highlighting the contributions of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia to women's education, he added, "Khaleda Zia created opportunities for women to study without tuition fees up to the twelfth grade."

The BNP acting chairman stated that no nation can progress by excluding women from its action plans. 

He asserted that the BNP structures all its action plans prioritising women's power, ensuring their security, and embracing their aspirations. 

"Not just in Bangladesh, but in all countries worldwide, doors to education, employment, business, and all possibilities are open for women" he said, emphasising the necessity of empowering everyone irrespective of gender, through education and skill development across all sectors.

He further elaborated, "If women are educated and made economically self-reliant, discrimination against them will decrease. Simultaneously, it will play a role in preventing domestic violence. For that reason, our slogan is 'Empowered Women, Liberated Families'."

Tarique Rahman stated that BNP's policy is rooted in human values, aiming to build a skilled workforce, ensure a safe working environment, and create new employment opportunities.

He noted, "The number of female-led households is increasing. However, in terms of self-reliance, women are still significantly lagging.

"To address women's economic self-reliance, BNP has already undertaken some plans. There are approximately four crore families in the country. BNP plans to introduce 'family cards' for 50 lakh economically disadvantaged families in the initial phase, he announced.

"If the BNP gets the opportunity to govern the country in the next election, these 'family cards' will be issued in the name of the female head of the family," he added.

Tarique Rahman stressed, "The role of women is extremely important for building the Bangladesh envisioned by the martyrs. The upcoming national election is vitally important for every citizen of the country. The women's community, in particular, must remain vigilant to ensure that fascism, extremism, and radicalism can never again rear their heads in the country."

He called upon people from all walks of life to remain united, concluding his address saying, "In the ongoing journey to build a safe, democratic, and humane Bangladesh for everyone, I expect the active participation and support of our mothers and sisters in the future as before."