Politics Desk
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has announced that his party intends to implement five key measures aimed at ensuring the safety of women in homes, public spaces, and professional environments.
In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Saturday, Tarique Rahman highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women in the country, noting that harassment, intimidation, and violence remain persistent issues. He emphasized that women should not live in fear while working, studying, or participating in public life.
“This is not the Bangladesh we dream of, and it is not the future our young girls deserve,” he said, stressing the need for comprehensive measures to protect women across all aspects of society. He also noted the increasing influence of the digital world on daily life, pointing out both new opportunities and emerging threats faced by women online.
The BNP leader outlined five priority measures that the party plans to implement after coming to power:
National Online Safety System – Establishing a fast and simple mechanism for women to report cyberbullying, threats, impersonation, and unauthorized sharing of personal information. The system would include a 24/7 hotline, an online portal, and trained responders to act promptly and respectfully. Partnerships with major digital platforms are expected to improve moderation in the Bangla language and ensure rapid removal of abusive content.
Protection Protocols for Women in Public Life – Introducing clear national guidelines, rapid legal and digital support, and confidential reporting channels for women who face attacks while working as journalists, activists, students, or community leaders. The protocol aims to ensure that no woman is silenced for participating in public life.
Digital Safety Education – Incorporating practical digital-safety skills into school and university orientations, with trained teachers serving as ‘safety focal points.’ Annual awareness campaigns will help young people navigate the online environment safely and confidently.
Stronger Community Response to Violence and Harassment – Establishing community help desks, safer transport routes, improved street lighting, and trauma-sensitive responders to enhance everyday safety for women.
Nationwide Promotion of Women’s Leadership and Participation – Expanding leadership training, mentorship networks, and access to childcare in schools, offices, and workplaces to enable women to contribute fully and lead effectively. Tarique Rahman emphasized that women’s advancement is intrinsically linked to national progress.
Tarique Rahman concluded by urging collective action across political, religious, and social lines to ensure a safer and more empowering environment for women. “A Bangladesh where women are safe, supported, and empowered is an unstoppable Bangladesh,” he stated.
The announcement reflects the BNP’s stated commitment to addressing both online and offline safety concerns for women and promoting gender equity as a cornerstone of national development.