RAJSHAHI – Ensuring the safety and rights of women and children is the main pre-requisite for a civilized, humane, and developed society, speakers said at a discussion meeting held in the Rajshahi District Administrator’s conference room today. The meeting was organized to observe Awareness Week on preventing violence against women and children, and child marriage.
Key Remarks from Officials
Deputy Commissioner Kazi Shahidul Islam addressed the meeting as chief guest, emphasizing that the country has strict laws to prevent violence against women and children, including anti-trafficking laws and anti-acid attack laws. However, he noted that this problem cannot be solved by the state alone or through the enforcement of laws in isolation.
Social Awareness and Enforcement
Islam highlighted that with strict enforcement of the acid attack prevention law alongside increased social awareness, this crime has now been almost eradicated from society. He called for similar efforts to address other forms of violence against women and children, urging that perpetrators must not only be brought under the law but also socially boycotted and identified as hated criminals.
Participants and Activities
The meeting was attended by officials and employees from various government and non-government offices, NGO representatives, teachers, students, and media personnel. Earlier, a rally was brought out from the District Administrator’s office premises to mark the Awareness Week. The rally paraded through important roads of the city and ended at the same place. At the end of the program, the District Administrator handed over prizes to the winners of various competitions.
Significance and Future Steps
The discussion underscored the importance of a comprehensive approach involving legal measures, social awareness, and community participation to ensure the safety and rights of women and children. This is crucial not only for their well-being but also for the overall development of society. The event highlighted the need for continued efforts and collaboration among various stakeholders to achieve these goals.
