Following the exit of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, religious extremist groups that her administration had previously kept in check are now becoming increasingly vocal and assertive, often directing their rhetoric against women and their rights.
Recent protests in Dhaka were ignited by several prominent incidents of sexual harassment, with participants calling for enhanced protections for women. Jannatul Promi, a student at Dhaka University, emphasized the widespread feeling of insecurity among young women.
“Since I don’t reside in the university dormitory, I don’t feel safe on campus after dark. I am always anxious about how I will return home. Our society has reached a point where women cannot feel secure going out alone at night. Given the recent events we have witnessed, it is even more challenging to feel brave. Change is essential. This is why we believe we must persist in our movement. That’s why we have chosen to boycott our classes and exams,” she shared with AFP.
Maleka Banu, the general secretary of Bangladesh Mohila Parishad, the nation’s oldest feminist organization, expressed concern over the increasing power of anti-women groups within society. “Currently, we are witnessing a surge in anti-women forces that are becoming increasingly audacious. They are assaulting women in public for various reasons, whether through mob violence or personal attacks, both overtly and covertly,” she remarked. Banu also criticized the government’s approach, calling for more than just expressions of concern from officials. “While it is important to express concern, that alone is insufficient. The state must implement effective measures and convey a strong message,” she emphasized.
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The rise in extremist behavior has resulted in a notable increase in harassment in public areas. Nishat Tanjim Nera, a student and anti-rape activist, recounted a disturbing experience she encountered while using public transportation. “One day, I observed a man tailing a girl on the metro. He then told her, ‘Your dress is inappropriate.’ When I confronted him, asking, ‘Who gave you the right to say that?’ he walked away. I believe that women today are facing significant insecurity,” she stated.
