HC seeks govt explanation over ‘failure’ to protect street children

The High Court today issued a rule asking the government to explain why its "failure" to take urgent and effective measures to protect and ensure the fundamental rights of street children across the country should not be declared illegal and without lawful authority.

HC bench of Justice Fahmida Quader and Justice Md Asif Hasan issued the rule following a writ petition filed as a public interest litigation by rights organisation Equitas Foundation, seeking necessary directives for the protection, rehabilitation and registration of street children.

The court also asked the authorities concerned to show cause as to why they should not be directed to formulate necessary rules, policies or laws to ensure the protection, rehabilitation and welfare of street children.

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Children’s safety under growing threat

In the rule, the HC further sought explanations as to why the authorities should not be directed to conduct investigations and nationwide surveys to determine the actual condition of street children, ensure strict monitoring and accountability mechanisms and take effective measures to prevent all forms of harassment, abuse, neglect and exploitation against them.

Lawyers Md Tanvir Ahmed, Biplob Kumar Poddar, Barrister Nishad Mahmud, Nur Mohammad Shahin Shahnewaz and SM Jakir Hossain represented Equitas Foundation during the hearing, while Deputy Attorney General Md Shafiqut Rahman represented the state.