Narir Jonno Nirapod Bangladesh Andolon, a platform of social, cultural and human rights organisations, will remain vigilant at and around Dhaka University to ensure women’s safety during the Bangla New Year celebrations.
Around 100 volunteers from 22 different organisations will remain vigilant at different points in the university area from 6:00am to 6:00pm in two shifts to prevent any untoward incidents.
The organisation announced the initiative at a press conference in the capital yesterday.
Speaking on the occasion, educationist Prof Ajoy Roy said women need a society where they can move around safely without being questioned. He also called upon all to wage a movement against radicalism.
About the statue of Greek Goddess Themis on the Supreme Court premises, he said, “The sculpture is a symbol of justice, not for worship.”
If the sculpture is removed, then sculptures such as the Raju sculpture and Aparajeyo Bangla need to be removed as well, he said.
Those who are trying to misinterpret Islam and provoke others must be punished, he opined.
In 2015, during Bangla New Year celebrations, a group of youths sexually assaulted several women in Dhaka University area.
Sharmeen Murshid, convener of the platform, Munira Khan, vice-president of Dhaka University Alumni Association, and Zakia Shishir, a rights activist, were also present.
