The Daily Star

We are shocked by the abusive and abhorrent language used at the Hefazat-e-Islam rally by some groups as they outright rejected the recommendations made by the Women's Affairs Reform Commission, calling for its immediate abolition.

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At a time when the people of the country aspire to build a discrimination-free society, such rhetoric – insulting women – is not only condemnable but also contrary to the values and respect for women in Islam.

The demand for the abolition of the commission is also unreasonable and disturbing.

Some groups might have reservations about certain aspects of the reform proposals that, as they claim, contradict Islamic values and laws.

But to reject all the recommendations without any dialogue – and using such unsavoury language – is reprehensible.

Is it possible for a nation to progress by depriving half of its population of their rights?

Women's participation in the workplace has made huge contributions to the economy.