MJF demands sexual harassment committees in all madrasahs

The Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has demanded the immediate formation of sexual harassment prevention committees in all madrasahs across Bangladesh, citing rising incidents of sexual violence against children.

The organisation expressed "deep outrage and grave concern" over recent cases, including the alleged rape and impregnation of an 11-year-old student in Netrokona's Madan upazila, reads a press release issued today (6 May).

"Madrasahs are educational institutions, and there is no reason for them to remain outside the scope of the High Court ruling," said MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam.

According to data from Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, a total of 1,028 women and girls faced various forms of violence, including sexual abuse, in the first four months of this year. Among them, 479 cases involved girl children.

The organisation said such incidents highlight the urgent need for systemic safeguards in madrasah institutions, noting that High Court directives issued in 2023 require all educational institutions to form committees to prevent sexual harassment. However, madrasahs have largely remained outside effective implementation.

Referring to the Netrokona case, MJF said the complaint indicates that a madrasah teacher had allegedly abused the victim multiple times since October, with the case coming to light after a medical examination revealed advanced pregnancy. The accused has since been detained.

The foundation also cited a separate case in Patuakhali where a madrasha teacher has been jailed over the alleged abuse of a 10-year-old student.

MJF called for a thorough investigation and strict punishment of those responsible under the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act, 2000.

The organisation also urged the government to expedite the enactment of the pending sexual harassment law and ensure accountability, stating that both the state and society share responsibility for protecting children.