Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami amir Shafiqur Rahman on Tuesday urged citizens to support the building of a justice-centred state, saying that the July movement sought justice and a fair, equitable state, not temporary economic benefits or unemployment allowances.

He, addressing an election rally in Gazipur, said that farmers, workers, students, youth and mothers had taken to the streets envisioning a society free from discrimination, and urged voters to support Insaaf to realise that vision.

On women’s rights and maternal protection, Shafiqur proposed that women’s daily working hours be limited to five hours for the first two to two-and-a-half years after childbirth, with the remaining time devoted to child care.

He said that wages during this period would be ensured through the department of social welfare services, stressing that a healthy mother and child form the foundation of a healthy society.

He said that they would give their lives, but would not allow anyone to compromise a mother’s dignity.

The Jamaat amir pledged that if they form the government, Gazipur would be elevated to match its industrial significance, with proper planning and respect for workers, particularly female workers who currently face wage discrimination despite performing the same work as men.

He criticised longstanding neglect in infrastructure, including roads, drainage, gas and electricity, despite the city’s significant contribution to GDP.

Shafiqur called for an end to family-centric politics and dynastic rule, saying that the state should nurture talent regardless of social background, enabling even the children of workers to rise to positions such as the prime ministership.

The rally was presided over by Gazipur city unit Jamaat Amir Jamal Uddin.

New Age Correspondent from Mymensingh reported that Shafiqur, in a rally in Mymensingh,  urged voters to reject old and corrupt political practices.

He said that the youth, children, and even their mothers and sisters no longer wanted the old politics, and that this election was not ordinary but would place the nation on the right path.

Jamaat amir said that every voter had two crucial choices: a ‘yes’ for freedom or a ‘no’ for slavery.

He warned against voting for those who would bring back fascism, exploit the public, or harass citizens through politically motivated legal cases.

Shafiqur said that the youth no longer support opportunistic politics or temporary welfare schemes, calling instead for a new Bangladesh built on fairness, equity, and justice.