Professor Giti Ara Nasreen has expressed disappointment with the interim government’s silence over the backlash against the Women`s Reform Commission.
She criticized the lack of support for the commission, despite it being officially formed by the government and working inclusively to submit a report with 433 recommendations.
Following the report`s release, Islamist groups like Hefazat-e-Islam and Jamaat-e-Islami rejected it, demanding the commission be disbanded.
Others argued that some recommendations appeared to pit religion against women`s rights. In contrast, a group of citizens and political entities have called on the government to support the commission and clarify its position.
Giti Ara noted that while disagreements are natural, direct attacks and official silence are alarming.
She highlighted the broader marginalization of women, even in the reform commissions, where female representation is notably low—except in the women’s commission itself.
She urged political parties to declare their stance on gender equality and discrimination against women.
Separately, Associate Professor Samina Luthfa demanded that political parties nominate at least 33% women in elections, stressing that women are eager to participate in politics and should be given the opportunity.
