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Annual General Meeting of Setu Bandhan Gori Network in Satkhira

Acid survivors are not a burden to society

Annual General Meeting of Setubandhan Gori Network in Satkhira
Annual General Meeting of Setu Bandhan Gori Network in Satkhira.

Acid survivors are no longer a burden to society; they are becoming self-reliant. These survivors are constantly overcoming the struggles of life and setting examples for others. They have integrated themselves into the mainstream of society, achieving financial independence. At this juncture, these individuals need all possible support. As people living in the mainstream of society, it is our moral responsibility to assist these survivors. The perpetrators who throw acid on others are animals, lacking the basic ethics that make us human. Only the acid victims can truly understand the pain they endure every day for the rest of their lives. It takes a complete lack of morality for someone to commit such a heinous act. We do not want any more acid attack incidents to occur. Acid-affected women, men, and children have now stood up for themselves. This was the key message at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Setu Bandhan Gori Network in Satkhira.

The speakers also raised concerns about the recent acid attack on Jahannara Khatun in Kaliganj in August. Despite the accused, Abdul Hamid and Sagar, roaming freely, they have not been arrested, and the complainants are fearful and anxious about receiving justice in the case.

The AGM was held on October 29, 2024, at the Ellarchar Fish Farm Hall in Satkhira, organized by Setu Bandhan Gori Network (SBGN), in partnership with the development organization SoDESH and donor agency ActionAid Bangladesh. The event included a cultural program and a fashion show performed by acid survivors. The event was attended by a diverse group of participants, including survivors, who displayed resilience and courage through their performances.

At the meeting, it was shared that there are currently 164 acid survivors in Satkhira district, comprising 116 women, 48 men, and several children.

In his address, the Chief Guest, Executive Magistrate Pranay Kumar, assured that acid survivors could approach the District Commissioner for assistance, and he would make every effort to provide support. He also assured support for students in their educational endeavors.

Mariyamonessa, Gender Equality and Women's Rights Manager at ActionAid, mentioned that acid attack survivors, who once could not integrate into the mainstream society, are now living as examples of resilience. Previously, these individuals faced significant societal rejection and often hid in seclusion. Now, the situation has changed. Acid survivors are setting examples by initiating their own businesses and gaining recognition both domestically and internationally. Acid-affected children are now pursuing education and attaining higher levels of schooling. ActionAid and SoDESH are continuously supporting these survivors through various programs in Satkhira, and it is hoped that, in the future, more beneficiaries will benefit from these initiatives.

The meeting was conducted by Nuru Nahar, Senior Program Officer at ActionAid, while Madhab Chandra Dutta, Executive Director of SoDESH, presided over the session. Other notable guests included Shafiqul Aslam, Fish Farm Officer, Razia Sultana from the Women’s Affairs Department, Mamtaz Ahmed Bappi, former president of the Press Club, and Kalyan Banerjee, District Correspondent for Prothom Alo, Ashraf Hossain, BRAC District Representative, Jyotsna Dutta from the Women’s Association, Shyamal Biswas, Executive of CIDO, Alinur Khan Babul, Civic Representative, Maruf Hossain, AGM at Development Partner, Mousum Islam, Biplob Hossain, District Representative of Manabzamin, Rahat Raja, Global TV Correspondent, and Sakibur Rahman, Social Worker.

During the AGM, a Position Paper was presented by acid survivor Bilshi Nahar, highlighting the needs and demands of acid attack survivors.

Recommendations:

  1. Establish cooperative-based joint agricultural farms under the ownership of acid survivors.
  2. Provide free medical treatment cards to acid survivors.
  3. Include acid survivors in the government's social safety net programs.
  4. Ensure free education opportunities for children of acid survivors.
  5. Provide disability cards to acid survivors who are physically affected.

This annual meeting served as a crucial platform for advocating for the rights of acid survivors and seeking continued support for their rehabilitation and integration into society.




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