Dhaka-18 candidate Ariful Islam Adeeb pledges women’s safety, public facilities, and justice at Dakshinkhan gathering. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Feb 4, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and National Citizen Party (NCP) backed 11-party electoral alliance candidate for Dhaka-18 Ariful Islam Adeeb has pledged to ensure women's safety, dignity and respect both at home and in workplaces, calling these fundamental rights, not privileges.

"Without safe and respected women, the overall progress of the country is impossible," he told a women's gathering organised by the Dakshinkhan Thana Women's Wing of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami at Mollartek Central Jame Mosque area this morning.

Outlining his plans for women in Dhaka-18, he said special transport services would be launched to ensure safe mobility, and CCTV cameras would be installed in public transport. "We also plan to construct hygienic public toilets for women at various locations," he added.

On broader governance issues, Ariful Islam called for impartial investigations into all killings that occurred during Sheikh Hasina's 17-year tenure to ensure justice. He also emphasised the need for structural reforms in the state system established since independence. "It is now time to implement the July National Charter through a referendum and secure a 'yes' vote," he said.

He described the upcoming election as more than a mere power transition. "This election is about safeguarding Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty from external domination, including India, and protecting the people's beliefs, culture and way of life."

"With these objectives, we have formed the 11-party 'United Bangladesh' alliance, including NCP and Jamaat-e-Islami," he said.

Ariful Islam said the coalition's main priorities are ensuring justice for all killings, implementing fundamental state reforms, and taking a firm stand against foreign influence. "We will also collectively resist terrorism, corruption, and extortion. These are the commitments of 'United Bangladesh'," he said.

Dakshinkhan West Thana Jamaat Amir Abu Saeed Shah Nawaz, Nayeb-e-Ameer Md Mamun, Secretary Ali Hossain Murad, women leaders Marzina Khatun and Fatema Yasmin Ruma also addressed the gathering.

Following the programme, Ariful Islam and his team conducted outreach and leaflet distribution in areas including Muktijoddha Road, Banabithi Residential Area, and Azampur BRAC Market.