Freedom fighters are the pride of the nation. The nation will never forget their contribution. If any of them are neglected, it is our duty to stand by them. But it cannot be said that all of them are financially backward, there are many of them who are financially well-off.
Poets and writers are also playing an important role in the development activities of the nation through their writings. There is no way to underestimate their role. I think there should be quota for them as well in recognition of their contribution. A kind of cultural revolution has been created through their intellectual writings, which accelerated the pace of development in the country.
Once upon a time there was a quota for women in government jobs in our country along with other quotas. But in 2018, this women's quota was canceled along with other quotas in a government announcement. More recently, a High Court judgment directed 5% quota for freedom fighters, 1% for persons with disabilities and 1% for ethnic minorities.
Today even after 53 years of independence, people especially women are agitating to get fair rights. Recently there have been many incidents of loss of life and injuries due to the quota reform movement in government job. Such incidents in the country are very unfortunate. Such incident will happen in this country and people will lose their lives--it was totally unexpected.
Many women (including women with disabilities and the third gender) are not financially well off, although they constitute almost half of the total population. They are victims of various forms of exploitation and discrimination in our country. That is why, they are a large part of the backward population. We cannot achieve national progress especially the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by showing discrimination against this large population.
SDG goal 5 called for empowering all women and girls. It says, political, social and economic equality for women will benefit all the world's citizens.
In Bangladesh, women are currently contributing to the economic development of the country in addition to fulfilling the important responsibilities of their respective families. I believe that any steps taken towards their development will also contribute to national development.
Children are future generation of our nation. If women are well protected and their rights established, they will be able to present a healthy and suitable children for our country, which will be definitely helpful for building Smart Bangladesh. If they (women) lag behind, it is a negative message regarding the country's development.
Hence, in my opinion, considering the contribution of women and their importance in nation building activities, there should be quota for women (including disabled women and third gender) in all government jobs. It will strengthen their position. It will speed up the country's development and also ensure protection of mothers and their children.
The author is a poet, lyricist and
journalist
