At the Ekushey Book Fair, PRAN-RFL Group showcased their “Stay-Safe” sanitary napkins to raise awareness about women’s health. However, Islamist groups objected to the display, deeming it inappropriate to showcase “private products” at the fair.
In response, the event management company, allegedly following directives from the Bangla Academy, asked PRAN-RFL to remove the display and replace it with other products. Although the company was not selling the napkins but rather distributing free samples, they complied and removed the stall.
The incident sparked controversy on social media, with critics arguing that such actions reinforce menstrual taboos. Women’s rights activist Marzia Prova noted that significant progress had been made in breaking menstruation-related stigmas, and the authorities’ move could undermine those efforts.
A printed letter circulating on social media, instructing PRAN-RFL to replace sanitary napkins with other products, was allegedly signed by the Bangla Academy’s Director General Mohammad Azam. However, the Bangla Academy denied direct involvement in the decision, stating that the book fair is strictly for books, not commercial products. Critics argue that this decision supports regressive social norms rather than promoting awareness and normalization of menstrual health.
Source: The Bangla Tribune
Date: 16 February 2025
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