‘Gravest rights’ violation’: MJF calls for stricter child protection laws after Uttara domestic worker abuse case
The Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has condemned the recent case of child abuse involving an 11-year-old domestic worker in Uttara, calling for strict enforcement of child protection laws and stronger monitoring of domestic work.
In a statement issued today (3 February), the rights organisation condemned "all forms of child abuse" following the arrest of Biman Bangladesh Airlines Managing Director and CEO Shafiqur Rahman, his wife, and two others in connection with the torture and abuse of the child.
Expressing outrage over the incident, MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam said, "Child abuse is one of the gravest violations of human rights and a betrayal of society's duty to protect its most vulnerable members."
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Citing court records, the statement said bail petitions for all four accused were rejected, and they were ordered to remain in jail pending further investigation after a case was filed under the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act.
According to the complaint filed by the victim's father, a hotel employee, the minor was placed in the household in June 2025 with assurances that her expenses, including future marriage costs, would be covered. The complaint alleges that she was later prevented from contacting or visiting her family.
The statement further noted that when the child returned home on 31 January, she was found with severe injuries, burns, and signs of prolonged abuse, and was subsequently admitted to hospital.
"Child labour has been a persistent concern in Bangladesh. According to the Bangladesh Labour Law, 2006, it is prohibited to employ children under 14. Yet there is little monitoring of child employment, particularly in domestic work," the statement said.
Shaheen Anam urged the government to adopt stricter protective measures and proposed including domestic work in the list of hazardous jobs prohibited for children.
"We stand in solidarity with the survivor and her family, and we call for rigorous investigation, fair judicial process, and long-term support for the victim," she said.
"Every child has the right to safety, education, and a childhood free from exploitation. It is time to end child labour in all its forms and ensure that no child is forced to work or suffer abuse," she added.
The statement said the case underscores the vulnerability of children employed in domestic work and exposes gaps in the enforcement of Bangladesh's child protection and child labour laws.
The MJF called for strict implementation of existing laws, enhanced monitoring of informal work settings, swift judicial action, and immediate survivor-centred support.
"No child should ever experience violence or exploitation. Robust legal action, social support systems, and preventive measures are critical to ending abuse in all its forms," the organisation said.
