Dhaka, Mar 17 (V7N)-  Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali has faced widespread criticism after suggesting that the term "rape" should be replaced with "women's oppression" in media reports. Following public outrage, he has since expressed regret for his statement.

Speaking at an event on March 16, Sajjat Ali requested the media to stop using the word "rape", suggesting they use "women’s abuse or oppression" instead.

He argued that the term was "unpleasant to hear" and that the law itself uses the phrase "women and children's abuse."

On March 17, after criticism from rights groups, civil society, and government officials, he issued a press release expressing regret:

 "During the discussion on violence against women and children, I termed rape as torture on a larger scale. I apologize if anyone was offended by my statement."

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman strongly condemned the statement, accusing the DMP Commissioner of "taking the side of rapists."

He said: "This is an attempt to protect rapists. Such a stance from a senior police officer is shocking and unacceptable."

He demanded that Sajjat Ali retract his statement completely.

On March 17, the Office of the Chief Advisor also issued a strong statement rejecting the DMP Commissioner's remarks.

"Rape is rape, whether committed against an 8-year-old or an 80-year-old woman. Such a heinous crime should be called by its rightful name. The interim government will not tolerate any form of violence against any citizen of Bangladesh."

The controversy highlights growing concerns over law enforcement’s stance on gender-based violence, with calls for greater accountability and sensitivity in addressing the issue.

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