Dhaka, Mar 14 (V7N) – BNP acting chairperson Tarique Rahman on Friday urged the relevant government authorities to play a responsible role in ensuring the safety and dignity of women and children.
"Any form of violence or harassment against women, adolescents and children is a clear violation of human rights. I call on the relevant government authorities to take responsibility in ensuring the safety and dignity of women and children," the BNP leader appealed in a Facebook post, expressing profound shock and sorrow at the death of an eight-year-old rape victim from Magura.
The victim, who had been undergoing treatment at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Dhaka after being sexually assaulted, passed away on Thursday.
She was admitted to CMH in critical condition on Saturday.
In his Facebook post, Tarique said the child's brutal death saddened him as much as it did the rest of the nation.
The BNP leader emphasized that this incident has brought shame to the people of the country.
He wrote: "I had initially announced medical and legal assistance for her upon learning about the incident. Under the past fascist government, rapists were not brought to justice but were instead rewarded in various ways, which is why these crimes continue to be repeated across the country."
He also said rapists often escape punishment due to legal loopholes and the lengthy judicial process.
"As a result, the prevalence of rape is increasing day by day," he added.
The BNP leader continued, saying that rape is not only a crime but also a grave affront to humanity and a horrific reflection of society’s moral decline.
He said that such barbaric incidents challenge the very foundation of humanity and morality.
"It is deeply concerning that rape incidents are not stopping even in the holy month of Ramadan," he added.
Tarique underscored the need to establish a comprehensive child protection system to ensure safe movement, civil liberties, and digital security for women and children.
"The victims and their families should receive the highest level of legal protection," he said.
Tarique called for ensuring exemplary punishment for such crimes to establish peace and justice in society.
"This incident is not only corrupting our present society but is also setting a terrible precedent for future generations," he said.
He stressed the importance of taking immediate measures to ensure that no one dares to commit such crimes in the future.
END/MSS/AJ
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