FROM PAGE 12

It also urged at least 33 percent nomination for women, with a gradual rise to 50 percent through reforms to the Representation of the People Order; provision of state funding for women candidates; decentralisation of Members of Parliament’s powers; protection of women from physical and online violence during polls; and the introduction of a “No Vote” option in all constituencies.

Former caretaker government adviser and educationist Rashed K Choudhury, who presided over the seminar, said it was unfortunate that even after 55 years of independence, women still had to demand their rightful share in politics.

“Women have contributed to every sector -- from foreign currency earnings to healthcare and education -- yet they remain sidelined in decision-making …. We don’t seek charity or tokenism; we seek recognition, respect, and a dignified place in leadership.”

Speaking at the event, Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter called for an end to nomination-based reserved seats. “Reserved seats must come through direct election -- no party selection, no tokenism.”

She criticised parties for treating these seats as a “bonus” for ruling majorities and urged women leaders to reject such humiliation. “We don’t want decorative roles; we want real power,” she said, adding that women’s organisations should also be eligible for nominations alongside political parties.

Senior Supreme Court Advocate Sara Hossain said women’s participation must reflect diversity. “Representation should include women of different professions, faiths, ethnicities, beliefs, abilities, and regions.”

She added, “Every political party and leader should pledge that women will not face discrimination -- not in public life, not in social life, and not within family life.”

Sara Hossain noted that the judiciary also lacks adequate representation of women and those who believe in gender equality. “That gap must be addressed.”

BNP leader Mahbuba Habiba urged all parties to increase direct nominations of women rather than rely on reserved seats, which she said have had limited impact. While acknowledging their temporary role, she called for mandatory quotas and structural reforms so women can compete equally in general elections.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s Foreign Affairs Secretary Khandakar Ayesha Khatun said her party’s internal ratio of women members has reached 43 percent, surpassing its initial 33 percent target. “Many women now serve as vice chairpersons, commissioners, and councillors. But future progress must align with social values and familial harmony.”

National Citizen Party Senior Joint Convener Samantha Sharmin said Bangladesh’s politics remains dominated by money and muscle, pushing women and marginalised groups to the sidelines. “Without reforming party structures and the electoral system, women cannot gain a real foothold in politics.”

NCP leader Tajnuva Jabeen said political parties must take responsibility for empowering women at the grassroots and policymaking levels, starting with the promised 33 percent representation. She warned that entrenched political interests often exclude women to preserve corruption and control.

Student leaders Umama Fatema and Ashrefa Khatun, along with other rights activists and political representatives, were also present at the event.