Violence against women

Md. Serajul Islam Hridoy, Department of Political Science. University of Dhaka

The constitution of the People's Republic of Bangladesh ensures equal rights for all citizens, irrespective of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth. Thus women enjoy the fundamental rights of freedom of speech and expression, association and assembly which form the basis of political activity in a civil society. But in practice women are neglected and oppressed. Now the question is what is domestic violence? Any unwanted and oppressive behaviour perpetrated upon an individual by an intimate relation within the boundary of home and outside the home is considered domestic violence. The forms of repression which are treated as violence are physical, economic, sexual, physiological or emotional abuse. Violence against women has become a common phenomenon all over the world as well as Bangladesh. The home is considered as the safest place for women but they are not as safe as we think. Our country will be developed only when we will be able to ensure a safe environment for women.