Awareness drive discussed to combat violence against women and children
A discussion meeting aimed at raising awareness about violence against women and children, as well as anti-drug initiatives, was held on Sunday, 29 June 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Upazila Hall Room of Rowangchhari, Bandarban.
Shantir Alo Unnayan Sangstha organised the event with overall support from the CCDB-CRP Bandarban programme, a local initiative of the Christian Commission for Development in Bangladesh (CCDB).
Moderated by Social Organiser Minupru Marma, the session was attended by Prabhuranjan Chakma, District Programme Officer of CCDB-CRP Bandarban, and Md Saiful Islam, Rowangchhari Upazila Nirbahi Officer, who was present as the chief guest.
Special guests included Rowangchhari Sadar Union Parishad Chairman Mehlaong Marma, Upazila Social Service Officer Thuyyiching Marma, and Upazila Cooperative Officer Md Ariful Islam.
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In his remarks, the chief guest, Md Saiful Islam, urged villagers to report incidents of violence and drug abuse through CCDB-CRP's village-level forums and to use government hotlines such as 109/10921 for women and child abuse, 1098 for child support, and 999 for emergency services. "Quick support is available, but only if information is shared in time," he said.
UP Chairman Mehlaong Marma noted that while local disputes are often resolved through traditional village mechanisms, some cases require formal legal intervention. "If arbitration fails, the administration must be informed so that justice can be ensured under the law," he added.
Others present included Md Fazlul Quader Chowdhury, Imam of Rowangchhari Central Mosque; a representative from the Department of Women's Affairs; CCDB-CRP social organiser Usingnu Marma; and forum leaders from Angjai Para, Benchhari Para, Gherau Bhitar Para, Rowangchhari Madhyam Para, Khabre Para, Halapaigoy Para, Chahla Para, Benchhari Uppara, Wagoy Para, and Khamtang Para.
The meeting emphasised the importance of community collaboration in combating social issues and called on citizens to work together to protect vulnerable groups and promote a safer, healthier society.
