Dhaka: The interim government today issued a stern warning against any attempts to discriminate against or oppress any group of citizens. “The interim government will take stern actions against any attempt to discriminate against or oppress any group of citizens,” stated a release from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the government expressed deep concerns over reports of incidents where women were prevented from participating in recreational activities. The statement specifically condemned the actions of those who disrupted girls’ football matches, emphasizing that women are equal citizens of Bangladesh with the same human and civil rights as men. The government is committed to ensuring that women enjoy their full rights as Bangladeshi citizens.
The statement further warned that anyone imposing restrictions on women and girls, violating their rights, would be held accountable under the laws of Bangladesh. The chief adviser’s office has instructed district administrations in Dinajpur and Joypurhat to take necessary actions to resume the suspended football matches. “The district administrators reported that they recently organized women’s football, cricket, and kabaddi matches, which were well-received by all sections of people in their districts,” the press wing noted.
Over the past month, the interim government, led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, has organized one of the largest Youth Festivals in the country, featuring women’s sports matches in numerous rural districts and subdistrict towns. Thousands of girls participated in football, cricket, and kabaddi matches, even in remote rural areas. Professor Yunus has been a lifelong advocate for women’s rights, with his Grameen Bank being more than 90 percent owned by women.
Last week, Professor Yunus met with FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to seek support for building infrastructure and facilities for women footballers in Bangladesh.