Jhalakathi, Mar 08 (V7N) – A discussion meeting on the rights, equality, empowerment, and development of women and girls was held at the Upazila Parishad Auditorium in Nalchiti, Jhalakathi, on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

The event was jointly organized by the Upazila Administration, Department of Women's Affairs, and the National Women's Organization.

The event was presided over by Upazila Women's Affairs Officer Nasrin Akhter and moderated by Sumi Akhter, a recitation teacher at the Nalchiti Girls' Club.

Chief Guest:

  • Md. Nazrul Islam, Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) of Nalchiti

Special Guests:

  • Ashraf Ali, Officer-in-Charge (OC, Investigation) of Nalchiti Police Station
  • Jebunnesa, Upazila Food Controller
  • Shahadat Hossain Monu, Senior Journalist
  • Md. Mohsin Sikder, Upazila Organizer, National Women's Organization
  • Women Entrepreneurs: Shahzadi Khanam, Suma Akhter, and others

Other speakers included women leaders Marfua Akhter, Mim Akhter, and Shahadat Hossain Monu.

Speakers raised concerns over increasing violence against women and urged the government to take stronger measures to ensure women’s safety. They emphasized that a daughter-in-law should be as dear as one’s own daughter and that all girls should feel safe, both within and outside their homes.

A major concern discussed was violence against women being settled through local arbitration, which often leads to justice being denied. Speakers demanded strict legal action to prevent such practices.

UNO Md. Nazrul Islam stressed the importance of moral and religious education from childhood, stating:

"If we fail to instill moral values in our male children, ensuring the safety of our daughters will become increasingly difficult. Mothers have a crucial role to play in shaping the values of their children."

He urged people to immediately report any incidents of harassment or violence to the authorities and assured that the Upazila administration will take strong action against such crimes.

The event was attended by:

  • Md. Shaheen Mahmud, Credit Supervisor, Nalchiti Upazila Women's Affairs Office
  • Md. Ariful Islam, Field Organizer, National Women's Organization
  • Local community leaders, law enforcement officials, and activists.

The discussion concluded with a call for collective action to create a safer and more inclusive society for women and girls.

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