156 orgs demand zero tolerance, speedy justice for violence against women, children

A total of 156 organisations working for the protection of women's and children's rights have expressed deep concern over the recent incidents of rape, murder and abuse involving women and children across the country, demanding that the government enforce a zero-tolerance policy, ensure speedy trials and fair disposal of cases.

The demands were raised at a press conference held yesterday (23 May) at the Sagar-Runi Auditorium of Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU).

The event was organised by Manusher Jonno Foundation, Amrai Pari Paribarik Nirjaton Protirodh Jot (WE CAN) and several other women's and children's rights organisations.

At the press conference, speakers highlighted recent incidents of rape, child abuse, murder and sexual violence reported in different districts, including Pallabi and Banasree in the capital, as well as Bheramara in Kushtia, Magura and Madan in Netrokona.

Zinat Ara Haque, chief executive of WE CAN, presented alarming statistics on violence against women and children based on reports published in various newspapers over the past four months.

On behalf of all participating organisations, she put forward 17 demands, including declaring violence against women and children a national emergency issue and adopting a highest-priority action plan.

Speaking at the press conference, Shaheen Anam, executive director of Manusher Jonno Foundation, said the country is currently going through a social crisis.

"Brutality against women and children has crossed all limits. Even after more than three decades of work by government and non-government organisations to protect the rights of women and children, everyone now appears speechless in the face of the current situation," she said.

"It seems criminals have realised that they will face no consequences even after committing crimes. As a result, the scale of such offences has multiplied significantly," she added, attributing the crisis to social decay, weak law enforcement and an overall erosion of human values.

She stressed the need to restore fraternity among neighbours and strengthen social values. She also urged child protection committees to intensify their efforts to strengthen child protection.

She further said the government must declare a 'zero tolerance' policy against child abuse.

Shahnaz Sumi, director of Bangladesh Nari Progati Sangha (BNPS), said there should be accountability for everyone involved in rape and murder cases, including investigating officers, medical professionals and others concerned.

She also emphasised the effective implementation of child protection policies during the establishment and operation of madrasas across the country.

Responding to questions from journalists, Fowzia Khondkar Eva, executive director of Pragroshor, said stronger coordination and solidarity among all government and non-government organisations and networks are necessary to collectively combat violence against women and children.

At the press conference, the father of a child survivor from Bheramara in Kushtia shared his views regarding an incident that took place on 16 March this year.

He said that after the rape case was filed, his daughter's case received widespread media attention. She is currently undergoing treatment, he added, but very few people now inquire about her condition. He expressed hope that the accused would be brought to justice.