‘State must protect survivors of sexual violence’

Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has condemned the attack, vandalism, and threats against the family of a teenage girl in Noakhali’s Subarnachar after they filed a case against a madrasa superintendent accused of attempting to rape her.

In a statement yesterday, the organisation expressed deep concern that the survivor and her family faced further violence and intimidation instead of receiving protection.

Citing reports, MJF said a group attacked their home and pressured them to withdraw the case, describing the incident as a serious abuse of power and a failure to ensure justice.

It warned that such incidents discourage families of sexual violence survivors from filing cases and seeking justice.

“This incident shows how survivors and their families are often punished for seeking justice. The state must protect survivors and their families and ensure the arrest and prosecution of the accused. Justice must come through the legal system, not informal compromise or social pressure,” said Shaheen Anam, executive director of MJF.

MJF urged authorities to ensure the safety of the Subarnachar survivor and her family, arrest the accused and those involved in the attack, and conduct a fast, fair, and transparent investigation.

It also called for action against attempts to settle or obstruct the case informally and for stronger monitoring and accountability in all educational institutions.

The organisation further expressed concern over delays in legal action and efforts to reach local settlements instead of carrying out proper investigations.

“Such practices weaken the justice system and put survivors at further risk, especially in educational institutions like madrasas,” the statement said.

“Protecting children must be a top national priority,” MJF added.

The organisation said it stood with the survivor and her family and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a safe and just environment for all children.