MJF outraged at rape, death of Bogura child

Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) yesterday expressed outrage at the death of eight-year girl in Bogura district, whose body was found in the early hours of Tuesday, after brutal rape by unknown assailant(s).

Condemning the incident, MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam said: "This horrific news of rape-induced death of a minor on the Victory Day clearly demonstrates that we have miserably failed to protect women and children even after 49 years of independence."

She urged the authorities to diligently conduct investigation into the murder of the minor and bring the perpetrator(s) to justice, says a press release from the organisation.

A total of 18 rape incidents have been reported in one Bangla and two English national dailies between November 1 and 15 December. Among the victims, 13 were children, four housewives and one teenager.

Of the child victims, one was mentally-challenged and seven were madrasa students.

MJF observed that the recent death penalty provision for rape, passed in November, has already proved ineffective as the number of rape and sexual harassment continues even after amendment of the law.

"It is horrifying that a mentally-challenged girl was not spared by criminals. The four incidents of gang-rape also point to state of 'helpless situation' for women and children. It is also utterly shameful that a section of madrasa teachers has been sexually abusing   students contrary to religious and ethical teachings," the statement said.

MJF also urged all human rights organisations and conscious citizens to wage a country-wide social movement against such atrocities, and set up systems so that all institutions concerned are accountable and efficient.