MJF urges immediate protection for Magura rape-murder victim's family

Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has voiced its deep concern for the safety and security of the family of the victim in the recent Magura rape and murder case.

The organisation urgently calls upon the authorities to take immediate and effective steps to ensure the protection of the victim's family members, particularly her 14-year-old elder sister, who is also a child bride, according to a press release.

Shaheen Anam, executive director of MJF, said, "The family is facing real and imminent threats of intimidation and possible acts of violence from the family of the convicted perpetrator, who are also the in-laws of the victim's sister.

"These threats are especially alarming given that the main accused has been convicted, while other accused family members have been acquitted of all charges. The fear of retaliation the family expresses must not be taken lightly."

"We strongly urge the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to prevent any further acts of violence, threats, or harassment against this already traumatised family," she added.

MJF also raises serious concerns about the broader context of gender-based violence and child rights violations in Bangladesh. The fact that the victim's 14-year-old sister is herself a child bride underscores the persistent and deeply troubling issues of child rape and child marriage.

The organisation calls on the government to urgently clarify the concrete actions being taken to prevent such violations and to ensure the safety and dignity of vulnerable girls throughout the country.

The incident occurred on the night of 5 March in Nijnanduali village, Magura, when the young girl was raped while visiting her sister's in-laws. She was found unconscious near the house and later died on 13 March after being treated at multiple hospitals, including Dhaka CMH. Her death sparked nationwide protests demanding justice.

Police arrested Hitu Sheikh, the main accused, along with his wife and two sons, who were accused of aiding the crime and attempting a cover-up. After the girl's death, murder charges were added.

A charge sheet was submitted on 13 April, and charges were framed on 23 April. Yesterday, Judge Zahid Hasan of the Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal in Magura gave the verdict, with Hitu Sheikh confessing to the crime.

MJF stands in solidarity with the victim's family and reiterates its call for justice, accountability, and comprehensive protection measures to be enacted without delay.