Shocheton.org, first-ever public registry of sexual offenders launched in Bangladesh

Highlights:

• Shocheton.org is Bangladesh's first public registry on sex offender 
• It raises awareness and provides public access to offender records
• Users can report incidents anonymously with details and evidence
• A moderation team verifies reports before publishing offender details
• The platform connects survivors with legal aid 
• Concerns exist about false accusations and the need for strict verification

A public registry of sex offenders named Shocheton.org has been launched in Bangladesh to document incidents of sexual offences across the country.

The platform, the first of its kind in the country, aims to increase awareness of sexual crimes and provide public access to offender records.

The developers have launched the website amid a recent increase in incidents of rape and sexual attacks on women and children across the country.

Anyone can submit information about sexual offences or abuse through this website.

"Our goal is to increase awareness of sexual crimes in society and make it easier to check records about offenders," says the developers in the website description.

To document any incident, you have to follow a few simple steps like creating an account on Shocheton.org and then clicking on the "Report an Incident" button to open a form.

Then you have to fill in details like the type of incident, location, time, and any other relevant information. Upload evidence or photos if you have them. You may remain anonymous if you prefer.

According to the website details, the information you submit is stored in a secure database. The security of your personal details is prioritised.

The website's moderation team first reviews the report. If necessary, they collaborate with local organisations, law enforcement, or other sources to verify the incident further. Once confirmed, offender details and a summary of the incident may be published, if permitted. 

"We also share maps, statistics, or summarised data to raise awareness about sexual offences," says the developers.

This initiative enables individuals to stay informed about sexual offenses in their area while fostering open discussions about sexual abuse and related crimes. 

Additionally, the organisation connects survivors with legal aid and psychosocial support services, ensuring they receive the assistance they need.

However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential misuse of such a platform, which could lead to false accusations. 

Proper verification before listing someone as an offender on the public registry and maintaining all other legal safeguards would be critical to the credibility of the platform.