Protests erupted across Bangladesh after an eight-year-old girl, who was raped, succumbed to her injuries. Citizens are calling for expedited justice for rape victims and clearer legal definitions surrounding sexual violence against minors.
Outrage Following Death of Rape Victim Sparks Nationwide Protests in Bangladesh
Outrage Following Death of Rape Victim Sparks Nationwide Protests in Bangladesh
The tragic death of an eight-year-old rape victim has ignited widespread protests across Bangladesh, with demands for urgent reforms in laws concerning women's and children's safety.
Fierce protests erupted in Bangladesh on Thursday following the death of an eight-year-old girl who had been raped, sparking demands for justice and reforms regarding women's and children's safety. The child, who suffered critical injuries during the incident that took place while visiting her elder sister's home in Magura, died after battling for her life for six days in a Dhaka hospital.
On the night of March 5, the girl was assaulted by her elder sister's 18-year-old husband, who, alongside his family members, was apprehended by authorities. News of the girl’s death triggered an angry mob to gather at the accused's home, resulting in the structure being set ablaze.
Reports indicated that the girl died around 13:00 local time after experiencing three cardiac arrests, despite doctors’ attempts to stabilize her. Her mother expressed her grief, stating she had hoped for her daughter's survival and vowed to never let her out alone again.
Following the tragic news, the girl's body was returned to Magura via army helicopter, leading to massive protests at the local stadium where thousands attended her funeral prayer. Demonstrations in Dhaka also witnessed students marching with a mock coffin to highlight the urgency of the issue.
Protesters voiced demands for the government to expedite justice for victims of rape, urging a revision of laws to better protect women and children from such violent acts. Calls for more precise legal definitions of rape were also made, as current laws remain ambiguous.
Legal officials have stated that the trial for the accused is expected to commence within the week, with DNA evidence already collected and testimonies obtained from witnesses. The existing law allows for the death penalty in cases involving the rape of minors, but despite stringent laws instituted in 2020 following a number of high-profile cases, reports of child rape continue to emerge across the nation.
The recent incident has shed light on a grim reality; data reveals that approximately 3,438 cases of child rape have been reported over the past eight years in Bangladesh, with a staggering number of victims being under the age of twelve. Experts indicate that often, these crimes are committed by individuals known to the victims, highlighting an urgent need for systemic change.
