Columnist
Columnist
This International Women's Day brings a profound message of concern and anxiety for women. Throughout history, women in this country have never been completely safe, but the current situation has surpassed all past limits. Violence and abuse against women have reached new heights, and due to the indifference of authorities and changes in societal attitudes, women now feel more unsafe than ever before.
After the fall of the Hasina government, there was a strong fear of retaliatory violence. Many believed that political vengeance was inevitable after the change in power. History also suggests this. In the past, when power transitions occurred, instances of violence, destruction of property, and attacks on political opponents were common. However, on August 5, the fall of the Hasina government created an unprecedented situation. The government was ousted through a bloody movement, leading government-affiliated individuals at the grassroots level to flee, while those who couldn’t escape were subjected to horrific conditions. Their homes, businesses, and properties were attacked, and even the police force faced intense resistance, leaving the military responsible for maintaining law and order.
In the recent political landscape of Bangladesh, the anti-discrimination student movement is adding a new dimension. The organization, which led the July uprising, is set to soon emerge as a new political party. The move to form this party has already heated up the political arena of the country. Although it may appear to be a student movement at first glance, its political intentions have become increasingly clear.
It was agreed that the interim government would run the country based on discussions and consensus with various political parties and relevant stakeholders; however, as time passes, disagreements between the government and different political parties are increasing. Even on the crucial issue of state reforms, consensus has not been established. Several commissions formed for reform have submitted their proposals, but there seems to be little interest in them within the political arena. Some political parties have even raised the demand for national elections to be held by July-August. This has created a sense of hesitation within the government as well. After assuming office, the interim government strongly stated that elections would only be held after the necessary reforms, but given the changed situation, the government appears to be becoming more flexible about holding elections.
Winter is gradually setting in. The meteorological department has forecast several cold waves this month. While winter might be enjoyable for the middle and upper classes, it is far from comfortable for the poor and working-class people. The lack of adequate warm clothing leaves them shivering in the cold. For the elderly and those with health issues, winter is an alarming season. They yearn for warmth and warm clothing, but no one seems to guarantee these basic necessities.
The crisis regarding edible oil continues to persist. On December 9, when there was a sudden shortage of bottled soybean oil in the market, the government decided to raise the price by 8 taka per liter. As a result, the price of one liter of bottled soybean oil has now been set at 175 taka, while the price of loose soybean oil is 157 taka. The price of loose soybean oil has increased from 149 taka per liter to 157 taka. The price of loose palm oil has also risen from 149 taka to 157 taka per liter. However, soybean oil is unavailable at these prices. Most shops in various parts of the capital are unable to supply bottled soybean oil, and there is a kind of chaos regarding loose soybean oil. Traders are charging arbitrary prices for loose soybean oil, with some selling it for as much as 200 taka per liter.