Jamaat-e-Islami reserved-seat lawmaker Nazmunnahar Nilu said Bangladesh gained independence in 1971 but achieved political freedom through the 2024 mass uprising. She made the remarks on Saturday as chief guest at a women workers’ rally in the Abdus Salam Hall of the National Press Club. The event was organised by the Bangladesh Sramik Kalyan Federation.

Remembering women’s contributions to the July movement, Nilu said the present state stands on the blood of 1,500 martyrs, including two women workers, during the events of “36 July,” or 5 August. She named fish seller Shahinur Begum, 57, and domestic worker Mosammat Liza, saying they were shot dead on their home balconies and describing the incidents as a brutal example of violence against women.

The rally demanded implementation of the July Charter and the referendum verdict, safe working conditions for women workers, fair wages and an end to workplace discrimination. Nilu called for respect for workers and said the state has responsibilities toward martyrs and injured people. Federation joint general secretary Rozina Akter chaired the gathering, attended by labour, political and media representatives.