BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman, speaking at an election rally in Khulna’s Probati School field on Monday, sharply criticized a political party for making anti-women statements before the upcoming general election on February 12. He said those who disrespect women, rely on falsehoods, and deprive citizens of voting rights cannot be patriotic or people-oriented. Rahman emphasized that with half of Bangladesh’s 200 million population being women, national progress is impossible without their inclusion.

He recalled former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s initiatives for women’s education and empowerment, and condemned a rival party leader’s derogatory remarks toward working women. Rahman accused that party of lying about its social media account being hacked after public backlash. He also pledged that if BNP forms the next government, every family will receive a “Family Card” to support women’s self-reliance, and the Khulna region will be revived as an industrial hub.

Rahman further promised IT parks for youth, agricultural cards for farmers, and loan waivers up to Tk 10,000, asserting that women’s empowerment, employment, education, and healthcare are essential for building the Bangladesh people expect.