Ramisa rape-murder: Child abuse, killing question conscience of society, observes court

A Dhaka Metropolitan Tribunal for the Prevention of Violence Against Children today (7 June) sentenced the prime accused, Sohel Rana, and his wife, Swapna Akter, to death for the rape and murder of child Ramisa Akter in the capital's Pallabi area.

Delivering the verdict, Judge Masrur Salekin observed that when a child becomes the victim of heinous crimes such as sexual abuse, violence, or murder, it deeply wounds the entire society and challenges the efficacy of the state's justice system.

The tribunal also slapped a fine of Tk5 lakh on Sohel Rana and Tk2 lakh on Swapna Akter, ordering that the realised fine be paid to the relatives of the victim. If the convicts fail to pay, the district collector will take the initiative to realise the money by auctioning their movable and immovable assets.

In its observations, the court stated that the rape and murder of child Ramisa is not merely a regular criminal judicial proceeding. The judge noted that the case represents a difficult trial for the conscience of society, humanity, the law enforcement system, and the rule of law itself.

Describing the case record as one filled with grief, anger, anxiety, and the expectation of justice for the cruel extinguishing of an innocent child's life, the court observed that such heinous acts do not harm just a single family, but strike at the core of the collective societal conscience.

The tribunal highlighted the significant burden currently placed on the judicial system, noting that this specific court, formed under the Prevention of Oppression Against Women and Children Act, 2000, is presently managing over 1,800 pending cases.

Every single one of which involves violence, sexual abuse, physical torture, or other serious offences committed against children. Unbearable suffering lies behind every file.

Judge Salekin remarked that behind every file lies the unbearable suffering of a child, the deep sighs of a family, and the expectations of countless people waiting for justice.

In that sense, the court observed that Ramisa's case holds special significance due to the comparative speed with which the investigation, judicial proceedings, and witness testimonies were concluded.

The tribunal noted with satisfaction that the investigation agencies completed their probe and submitted the official report within an exceptionally short timeframe.

Similarly, the prosecution played a vital role in advancing the trial rapidly and effectively by producing all crucial witnesses before the court in a very brief period.

The court praised the sincerity and professionalism demonstrated by the case's investigating officer, the prosecution, and all related judicial personnel in establishing justice.

Concluding its observations, the court expressed hope that the swift, efficient, impartial, and quality investigation and judicial process witnessed in child Ramisa's case will serve as an exemplary precedent for future cases involving child abuse and violence.

The tribunal expressed hope that all relevant authorities demonstrate the same level of dedication, skill, and responsibility in the future so that justice-seeking citizens, particularly victimised children and their families, are not left trapped in unnecessary delays and prolonged uncertainty.