Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman launched a fierce critique against Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Monday, accusing the party of harboring plans to confine women to their homes and marginalize them from national leadership.

Speaking as the chief guest at an electoral rally in Khulna’s Khalishpur, Tarique asserted that no nation can progress while excluding half of its population, specifically referencing the nearly 100 million women who form the backbone of the country.

The BNP leader pointedly criticized recent derogatory comments made by a rival leader concerning working women, describing such rhetoric as a disgrace to the entire nation.

He reminded the audience that Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) wife, Hazrat Khadija (RA), was a successful entrepreneur, arguing that those claiming to represent Islamic values have no right to disparage women's professional lives.

He also dismissed the rival party’s claims that their social media accounts were hacked to post offensive content, labeling the excuse a blatant falsehood ahead of the February 12 polls.

Highlighting his party’s vision for reconstruction, Tarique pledged to govern through inclusion, involving all classes and professions.

He recalled the initiatives of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, such as free education for girls up to the intermediate level, as the foundation for female empowerment in Bangladesh.

He emphasized that the millions of women working in the garment industry and those supporting their families through rising inflation are essential to the national economy and deserve dignity rather than insults.

Beyond social issues, the BNP Chairman outlined a series of economic pledges designed to provide immediate relief and long-term stability.

He announced the introduction of a "Family Card" system to foster financial independence for women and a "Krishi Card" for farmers to access essential supplies. Tarique also made a high-stakes promise to waive interest and principal on agricultural loans up to Tk 10,000.

For the youth, he committed to developing modern IT parks and revitalizing the industrial sectors of Khulna, Satkhira, and Bagerhat to restore the region’s status as a vibrant economic hub.

Addressing the broader political landscape, Tarique characterized the upcoming election as a historic opportunity for citizens to reclaim a right denied to them for 16 years.

He noted that after the mass uprising in July and August 2024, the people are finally in a position to express their will through the ballot.

He concluded by stating that only through quality education, modern healthcare, and widespread employment can the expected "New Bangladesh" be built.

Sun News/ra