Introduction

The year 2005 was a turbulent, crisis-ridden, and politically critical period for Bangladesh. Across the country, fundamentalist terrorism and communal violence began to take a horrific form. Incidents such as the attack on the CPB’s national conference, a bomb explosion at the Baishakhi fair organized by the Udichi cultural group at Ramna Botmul, a brutal bombing in a cinema hall in Mymensingh, and simultaneous bomb blasts at different places were consecutive demonstrations of the fundamentalists’ power and presence.

During this time, fundamentalists conspired to obstruct women’s liberation and empowerment through oppression, fear, and religious misinterpretation.

In response to the religious hatred and misogyny propagated by fundamentalists, women and progressive organizations from across Bangladesh united. As part of this movement, Bangladesh Kishani Sabha organized the historic Anti-Fundamentalist Women’s Conference 2005 at Muktangan, Dhaka on 29 March 2005.

The aim of this conference was to raise public awareness in favor of women’s liberation and empowerment, secularism, and democracy, and to build a democratic resistance against fundamentalist terrorism and state neglect.

Atmosphere and Obstacles at the Conference

Despite obstruction from fundamentalist and fanatic groups, the participating women displayed firm determination and courage. In many parts of the country, women faced barriers to attending the conference, were intimidated with religious misinterpretations, and warned that “those who do not observe Purdah will go to hell.” Nevertheless, thousands of women overcame these obstacles and arrived in Dhaka on time.

The ruling regime at the time was loyal to fundamentalists. As a result, the organizers were not permitted to use a large sound system at Muktangan, causing some difficulty in conducting the program. The organizers had to rely on hand microphones. However, the women’s unity and resolve remained unbroken; instead, it grew stronger.

Cultural Performances

Although there was no drama performed at the conference, lively folk songs and cultural presentations were featured. Women farmers and working-class women conveyed messages of struggle and liberation through various folk songs. These songs reflected social deprivation, women’s exploitation, rebellion against fundamentalism, and democratic hopes and aspirations.

Some of the songs performed were:

– ⁠“Women, wake up, take the pledge to struggle”

– ⁠ ⁠“Light a lamp in the dark room”

-⁠ “Today we will break the black shadow of fundamentalism”

This cultural segment was one of the most vibrant aspects of the gathering.

Speeches and Written Statement

The conference was presided over by Khurshida Akter, President of Bangladesh Kishani Sabha. The chief guest, Comrade Badrul Alam, President of Bangladesh Krishok Federation, delivered the keynote speech.

Other speakers included:
– Comrade Saiful Haque, General Secretary, Bangladesh Revolutionary Workers Party
– Comrade Samsunnahar, President, Socialist Women’s Front (BASAD)

Additionally, a special written statement was presented at the conference. It strongly condemned fundamentalist terrorism, oppression against women, and state neglect, while emphatically calling for democratic and socialist unity. The written statement was highly respected by all attendees and became the focus of discussion.

Extensive Speech by Comrade Badrul Alam

“Fundamentalism in Bangladesh is not an accident; it is a part of capitalism and imperialism, serving as a tool of class oppression. In the name of religion, women’s freedom and rights are being attacked. Women’s education is being devalued, their political participation is being blocked, and their voices are being silenced. But women will no longer remain confined to their homes. They are fighters and are taking leadership positions — and will continue to do so.

Fundamentalism is not only a religious issue; it is a class issue. Without women’s liberation, the liberation of the working people is impossible. Today’s conference demonstrates that women are the main driving force for social change. We must unite and continue the struggle against fundamentalism and capitalism. Without women’s leadership, this struggle cannot succeed.

We hold the strength of unity and democratic ideals in our hands. Together, we will build a socialist and humanitarian Bangladesh where women will be free, have equal rights, and live without exploitation.”

Conclusion

The Anti-Fundamentalist Women’s Conference held on 29 March 2005 at Muktangan, Dhaka, was a groundbreaking step in Bangladesh’s women’s liberation movement. It proved that women are not oppressed or victimized figures; rather, they are fighters, capable of leadership and resistance against fundamentalism and capitalism.

The conference highlighted the urgent need to build democratic unity against fundamentalist terrorism, fanaticism, and state negligence. This is not only a fight for women’s liberation but a strategic battle for the overall liberation of society.

Even today, the message of this conference guides us — the struggle for women’s liberation against fundamentalism and capitalism must continue, women’s leadership must be further organized, and democratic and socialist ideals must be realized.

Anti-Fundamentalist Women’s Conference 2005
Organizer: Bangladesh Kishani Sabha (BKS)
Venue: Muktangan, Dhaka
Date:29 March 2005
Chief Guest: Comrade Badrul Alam, President, Bangladesh Krishok Federation (BKF)

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