Dhaka, Mar 10 (V7N)- Save the Children, committed to protecting children’s rights in Bangladesh for over 50 years, has expressed deep concern over the recent rape of an 8-year-old girl in Magura.

The child was visiting her sister’s house when the incident occurred last week.

This case adds to the alarming rise in violence against women and children.

In 2024 alone, 2,362 women and girls have been victims of violence, including 1,036 children.

Save the Children urges the government to take immediate action to ensure swift justice for the victim.

Recognizing that many such cases occur within families and communities, Save the Children calls for an integrated child protection system that begins at the family and community levels.

Shumon Sengupta, country director of Save the Children, said: “We demand systemic justice for the victim of this horrific crime. Authorities must take immediate action to ensure perpetrators face fair trials. With nearly 40% of violence victims being children, urgent changes are needed to protect them—especially girls—from abuse and violence."

She added: "Prevention starts with shifting mindsets to prioritize child protection. Upholding children’s rights and improving their quality of life requires strong protective measures. At Save the Children, we work to establish proper structures to prevent and respond to abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence.”

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