Divisional Commissioner Md. Firoz Sarkar inaugurated the International Women's Day programme in Khulna. Photo: PID

KHULNA, March 8, 2025 (BSS) - International Women's Day was observed in the Metropolitan city on Saturday with various programs, including rally, women entrepreneurs' fair and discussion.

With the theme "Rights, Equality, Empowerment/Development of Women and Girls," a discussion meeting was held in the morning at the conference hall of the Khulna Deputy Commissioner's office. 

Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md. Firoz Sarkar spoke it as chief guest with Khulna deputy commissioner Mohammad Saiful Islam in the chair.

Superintendent of Police TM Mosharraf Hossain addressed the meeting as special guest. Acting Deputy Director of the Department of Women Affairs Suraiya Siddika gave the welcome speech.

Women rights activist Advocate Shamima Sultana Shilu, among others, addressed the event. Officials from various government departments and representatives of women's organizations joined the discussion.

Md Firoz Sarkar said women must be respected and should not be treated differently. There should be no discrimination between sons and daughters as women play an important role in every sector alongside men, he added.

He also mentioned the significant role of women in the July-August uprising and encouraged them to courageously protest against injustice. 

Later, the divisional commissioner distributed prizes among the winners of the quiz competition.

Earlier, the chief guest inaugurated the day-long Women Entrepreneurs' Fair at the Khulna Collectorate premises marking celebration of the day.