Samajik Protirodh Committee demands safety for ‘marginalised voters’ in national elections

The platform also calls for a total ban on the use of religion in election campaigning

The Samajik Protirodh Committee has called for the guarantee of proper security to ensure that all citizens -- regardless of gender, religion, caste, or tribe -- can exercise their right to vote voluntarily and fairly in the national election.

The committee submitted a memorandum outlining these demands to the Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Wednesday.

Bangladesh Mahila Parishad President Fauzia Moslem shared the details in a media statement issued on behalf of the organisation.

The general election and referendum are scheduled for Feb 12, with official campaigning set to begin on Thursday.

The Samajik Protirodh Committee, a coalition of 71 women’s rights, human rights, and development organisations, said: "We all want a government to be formed through a fair election that reflects the opinions of every citizen.

“We demand a level playing field and a gender-sensitive environment free from fear, terrorism, and harassment, not only for political parties but for all citizens, including women, indigenous people, the poor, and religious minorities."

The organisation, which works to prevent violence against women and protect women's human rights, added: "We want this election to establish an egalitarian, representative, accountable, and permanently effective democratic system in the country."