Mass rally in Noakhali stands in solidarity with victims of gender-based violence

The recent surge in the number of rape cases has outraged the nation, as activists around the country continue to protest against such heinous crimes. In light of these events, a mass rally to raise awareness on violence against women and the prevention of rape was arranged recently at the premises of Noakhali's Shilpakala Academy by Jaago Bangladesh and several other central organisations, including Noakhali Rural Development Society (NRDS).

The recent rape cases in Noakhali's Ekhlaspur and Begumgonj areas have shook the nation to the core. As a result, activists gathered at Noakhali to stand in solidarity with the victims.

The mass rally titled, "Nari Nirjaton O Dhorshon Protirodhe Jaago Bangladesh" held day-long discussion sessions along with an art exhibition, a photography exhibition, a cultural programme and a karate act.

Mohammad Khorshed Alam Khan, Deputy Commissioner, Noakhali, inaugurated the programme while Alamgir Hossain, Zila Police Super, Noakhali, was present as the special guest. Three joint conveners Abdul Awal, Molla Habibur Rasul Mamun and Laila Parvin were present at the event.

"Such protests must be spread in the remote villages of the country, then and only then can we raise awareness and stop violence against women," says Mohammad Khorshed Alam Khan, DC, Noakhali. "We will look into the administrative matters and we will show no mercy to any perpetrators, as they must face the trials for their crimes."

With the welcoming songs, "Jaago Nari Jaago", "Karar Oi Louho Kopat" and "Chol Chol Chol", Shilpakala Academy echoed the strength and fighting spirit of women across the country. Members from Udichi Shilpigoshti Noakhali Zila Shangshad participated in the cultural programme, along with several local participants.

Young students of the Noakhali Karate Association, under Bangladesh Karate Federation, demonstrated self-defense skills in front of the audience. Young women and girls in Noakhali portrayed women's despair, anguish and struggles through artworks painted on traditional sharees. The photography exhibition, titled, "Begumgonjer Shahoshika'r Jonno", showcased several photographs of the countrywide protests against rape and violence against women.

"We, ourselves, are our strengths and all of us should pledge to stand up against any kind of oppression, be it physical, mental or sexual, towards women," shares activist Ayesha Siddika Lucky.

Several activists, including Nasima Munni, Advocate Kalpana Rani Das, Syeda Gulrukh, Bithi Ghosh, Mahfuza Haque and Umme Kulsum among others participated in the discussion session.

"I aspire to see a country where girls will learn to live with their heads held high and in a way that any citizen of an independent country should live," expresses Rahnuma Ahmed, renowned anthropologist, columnist, writer and activist. "Starting with Noakhali, I hope we can create a safe and respectable country for both men and women, through these protests."

Activists shed light on several topics such as the importance of sex education, harmful consequences of negative mentality of a patriarchal society, the negative attitude towards working women, victim-blaming, the strict implementation of law and order and the importance of protests among others in the session.

 "No one is born as a rapist. A rapist is created only by the society's toxic mentality and heinous practices towards women," expresses Bithi Ghosh. "This is not women's fight alone, people from all walks of life need to come forward in this fight against oppression."

 "The response of the general people of Noakhali has been praiseworthy," shares Abdul Awal, chief organiser of the event. "Though in certain areas people are involved in victim-blaming and such toxic activities, people of Noakhali are coming forward and breaking the barriers by participating in protests."

From November 25 to December 10, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign raises awareness to challenge violence against women and girls, across the globe. In accordance with the global campaign, activists plan to organise such events in areas across the country.