Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur (BRUR) administration has expressed deep concern and condemnation over a comment by a university teacher about an enlightened person like Begum Rokeya.
Recently, a teacher of the Department of Physics of Rajshahi University posted a ‘kafir-murtad’ comment on social media about the pioneer of women’s awakening and social reform, Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain.
“Such insulting comments towards her are an irresponsible stance aimed at belittling the entire women’s liberation movement,” said a BRUR press release tonight.
Begum Rokeya made an outstanding contribution to the Bengali women’s awakening, the spread of women’s education, the struggle against discrimination, and the establishment of equal rights for women in modern society.
She spent her entire life through her pen and struggle against the backwardness of society, superstitions, child marriage, dowry, dowry system, and the subordinate position of women.
‘Motichur’, ‘Sultana’s Dream’, ‘Aborhadbasini’ or ‘Padmarag’ – in any of her works, she established the power of reason, progress, free thought and scientific mind for people and humanity.
“Rokeya’s thoughts and philosophy were never against Islam or fundamental religious principles. She spoke about women’s rights from within the Islamic precepts. Rokeya herself was a “practicing Muslim”, her biographers have mentioned,” the release said.
Calling such a luminary a ‘murtad’ or ‘kafir’ is not only insulting; it is an attempt to instill hatred in society and question the achievements of women, and is a punishable offense under domestic law.
BRUR was named after Begum Rokeya’s ideals and memory.
This higher education institution is constantly working towards the advancement of women and building a society free from discrimination through education, research and open knowledge.
Every year, the university authorities observe ‘Rokeya Day’ with great dignity and respect, which is working to spread her ideals at home and abroad.
BRUR is working towards the real reflection of her dream of women’s development, human values and building a progressive society in the country.
The BRUR administration is calling on the government, including the Bangladesh University Grants Commission, to properly investigate the incident and take necessary measures.
It expects a responsible role from all concerned to protect the quality and dignity of the higher education system and ensure responsible behavior in the academic arena.
“A proper example will be set so that no one is encouraged to make such unwanted comments in the future,” the release added.
