Direct elections demanded

They said this while addressing a rally held at the Bangabandhu Avenue in front of the JSD office yesterday afternoon.

Terming the government an obstacle to implementing the rights of women, the leaders alleged that the current parliament is conspiring against women's empowerment.

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JSD President Hasanul Haq Inu in his speech reiterated the demand for at least 64 reserved seats for women in 64 districts and direct election in those seats to empower women.

He said that leaving the provision of direct election in the reserved seats aside indicates that this government holds a very negative view of women's empowerment.

JSD leader Shirin Akhter rejected the government plan of 45 reserved seats without the provision of direct election and said women would not go to parliament merely as an 'ornament'.

Women participants carrying placards that read 'we demand direct election in reserved women seats' gathered at the rally premises and chanted slogans in favour of the demand.

They brought out a procession and paraded the streets.