Protests Erupt in Dhaka Against Legal Reforms for Women’s Rights
In Dhaka, Bangladesh, thousands of supporters from the Islamist group Hefazat-e-Islam gathered on Saturday to voice their opposition to proposed legal changes aimed at securing equal rights for women, particularly regarding property ownership.
The Hefazat-e-Islam leaders argue that these recommendations conflict with Sharia law. During the rally, which drew over 20,000 attendees, demonstrators displayed banners proclaiming, “Say no to Western laws on our women, rise up Bangladesh.” This display signifies their commitment to preserving traditional values that they believe are under threat.
Unexpectedly, the group threatened to conduct further protests across the nation on May 23, should the government fail to address their concerns. Mamunul Haque, a prominent leader within the group, condemned the interim government’s reforms commission, demanding its dissolution and punishment for its members. He claimed the proposed changes undermine the sentiments of the majority by labeling religious inheritance laws as a primary source of discrimination against women.
Moreover, the group’s leaders called for the current interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, to ban the Awami League party formerly headed by Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted last August. Hasina’s government faced allegations of severe repression during its tenure, including violence against demonstrators. Since her removal, Hasina has sought refuge in India.
The rise of Islamist groups like Hefazat-e-Islam has been more evident following Hasina’s ousting. Many minority communities in Bangladesh have expressed concerns about intimidation in the current political climate.
