Protesters at Ctg human chain demand speedy trial over Ramisa murder, Bakalia child rape attempt

Protesters held a human chain in Chattogram today (23 May) demanding a speedy trial and maximum punishment for those involved in the rape and murder of child Ramisa in the capital and the attempted rape of a child in the port city's Bakalia area.

Organised under the banner of Citizens' Platform Against Women and Children Repression, the programme took place in front of the Chattogram Press Club this morning.

Following the event, platform representatives submitted a memorandum to the prime minister through the Chattogram deputy commissioner.

Around 300 representatives from various civic organisations joined the human chain. Children, parents, teachers, human rights activists and members of different social groups participated in the programme.

Participants wore black badges, observed a minute of silence in memory of Ramisa, and chanted protest slogans demanding justice.

While accepting the memorandum, Deputy Commissioner Jahedul Islam said preventing child rape, murder and other crimes requires not only administrative and law enforcement efforts but also strong social resistance, urging civil society to play a more proactive role.

Mohammed Ali Shahin, head of advocacy at Young Power in Social Action (YPSA), said coordinated efforts by the government, law enforcement agencies and the judiciary are essential to ensure swift justice for Ramisa and other child abuse victims.

Abdus Salam, divisional manager of Bureau Bangladesh, said exemplary punishment for such crimes can help deter future offenders and strengthen justice.

Women's rights activist and Ilma Director Jesmin Sultana Paru expressed deep concern over the safety of women and children, saying all sections of society must work together to build a safe and violence-free environment for children.

Sirajul Islam, coordinator of Ghashful, said public confidence in the justice system will weaken further if the Ramisa case does not receive swift and exemplary justice.

Rafia, a child representative of Agnibina, said, "Today, my sister Ramisa became a victim of torture and murder. Where is the guarantee that tomorrow another child or I will not face the same fate?"

Bright Bangladesh representative Utpal Barua said authorities must investigate why such crimes persist despite existing laws, stressing that the culture of impunity must end to curb violence against women and children.

The memorandum called for speedy and transparent investigations into all incidents of violence against women and children, trials through special tribunals, maximum punishment for offenders, security and rehabilitation for victims' families, and ensuring a safe environment for children.

Mohammad Emdadul Islam Chowdhury of Caritas, Payel Christina Das of World Vision, and Liton Chowdhury of Sangshaptak also addressed the programme.