Bangladeshi students demand action against rising violence toward women: Video
Crowds of female students in Dhaka took to the streets late Tuesday, October 22 carrying burning torches and calling on the government to address a troubling increase in violence against women.
Many protesters expressed disappointment that the recent student-led revolution, which led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August, had not resulted in improved safety for women.
"The recent uprising, which saw a huge participation from women, raised expectations that there would be no rapes, no harassment of women, and absolute security for them," protester Israt Jahan Imu told AFP. "But we don't see any change; we are in the same situation as we were during the fascist regime."
According to women's rights group Bangladesh Mohila Parishad, reports of violence against women rose by over 25% in September compared to previous months. The group gathers data from ten national newspapers, cross-referencing it with their findings.
"Freedom! Freedom!" chanted the women as they marched through Dhaka University, some waving torches. "When we speak up, we are asked to be patient," Imu added.
The demonstrations come as Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the country’s "chief advisor" to lead a temporary administration focused on restoring democratic institutions.
"There should be no inequality among the citizens of Bangladesh," protester Rupashi Chakma said. "Violence against women across all regions of the country must end."
