BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. File photo

DHAKA, Dec 9, 2025 (BSS) - Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has paid profound tribute to Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, saying that her life and ideals will continue to inspire and encourage women across generations.

In a post on his verified Facebook page, Tarique Rahman wrote: "On the occasion of the birth and death anniversary of Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, I convey my profound respect to her memory and pray for the eternal peace of her departed soul."

He said, "Begum Rokeya, though born into a conservative family, emerged as a pioneering torchbearer of her time and a guiding light for women's awakening." 

He added, "From her own life experiences, she realized the causes of women's backwardness in society, and firmly understood that education is the foundation of women's dignity."

The BNP Acting Chairman continued that she championed the spread of women's education and proved that through knowledge, personality and self-confidence can flourish. Begum Rokeya was the first to initiate efforts to enlighten the disadvantaged Muslim women of this country.

While carrying the message of women's liberation, he wrote, Begum Rokeya faced severe criticism and attacks from rigidly conservative forces. Yet she remained steadfast, indomitable and uncompromising in her responsibilities and efforts.

"Through her powerful writings, Begum Rokeya struck at the roots of injustice and discriminatory attitudes towards women. She placed women's autonomy and dignity at the center of family, society and the economy," he noted.

He went on, saying that Begum Rokeya firmly believed that proper education was essential for women to become self-reliant. To this end, she built social movements, defying countless hurdles of narrow-mindedness.

Mentioning that at the core of Begum Rokeya's philosophy lies the spirit of true freedom for women, Tarique Rahman expressed his belief that "her working life and ideals will continue to inspire and encourage women."