Bangladesh Islamists rally against proposed changes to women's rights

Thousands protest women’s rights reforms in Dhaka

Robert Besser
09 May 2025, 16:49 GMT+10

Bangladesh Islamists rally against proposed changes to women's rights

Thousands of supporters of the Islamist group Hefazat-e-Islam took to the streets of Dhaka over the weekend to protest proposed legal reforms aimed at ensuring equal rights for women, including changes to property laws
The group argues that the recommendations contradict Sharia law
More than 20,000 demonstrators gathered near Dhaka University, holding placards and banners with slogans like “Say no to Western laws on our women, rise up Bangladesh"

DHAKA, Bangladesh: Thousands of supporters of the Islamist group Hefazat-e-Islam took to the streets of Dhaka to protest proposed legal reforms aimed at ensuring equal rights for women, including changes to property laws.

The group argues that the recommendations contradict Sharia law. More than 20,000 demonstrators gathered near Dhaka University, holding placards and banners with slogans like "Say no to Western laws on our women, rise up Bangladesh."

Hefazat leaders warned of nationwide protests on May 23 if their demands are not met. One of the group's leaders, Mamunul Haque, called for the abolition of the interim government's reform commission and punishment for its members. He claimed the proposed reforms insulted "the sentiments of the majority of the people of this country" by blaming religious inheritance laws for gender inequality.

The group also demanded a ban on the Awami League, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted in August and is now in exile in India. Hasina's critics have accused her of overseeing violence that resulted in the deaths of hundreds during the uprising that ended her 15-year rule.

Since her removal, Islamist groups have become more active, while minority communities have reported growing intimidation.