16-day countrywide campaign starts

Several social and women's rights organisations yesterday arranged different programmes, including rallies and processions, in the capital in observance of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. 

Amrai Pari Paribarik Nirjaton Protirodh Jote organised a rally on the Central Shaheed Minar premises in the capital. They later brought out a procession.

Chairperson of the jote Sultana Kamal hoped that men and women would live with dignity and a secured environment for females could be created. Several organisations participated in the programme.

Prof Geeti Ara Nasreen of Dhaka University said there has been no progress in hundreds of rape cases.

A theatre group, changemaker, and a group of sex workers performed two street plays.

Later, Sultana Kamal announced start of a 16-day campaign programme to be held in 48 districts in this regard.

In the morning, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad and DU's women and gender studies department organised a rally at Aparajeya Bangla with the slogan "The family and society will be the fortress to prevent violence against females".

President of the parishad Ayesha Khanam said the country's achievements are questioned when females are assaulted.

Later, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad organised a seminar on "Female movement in Bangladesh: Elimination of violence against women and youth participation" at DU.