Students nationwide are protesting against sexual violence for the third day, demanding justice and harsher penalties for offenders. Protests were instigated by a grievous case of child rape. Demonstrations took place in Rajshahi, Chittagong, and Manikganj, highlighting urgent calls for reform in the judiciary and enhanced safety measures for women.
For the third consecutive day, students across the nation are protesting against sexual violence, urging for justice for victims and stricter penalties for offenders. This wave of protests was ignited by the harrowing case of an 8-year-old girl who is currently in critical condition due to a reported rape by a middle-aged man. The public outcry began on Saturday evening and has not waned since.
Demonstrations in Rajshahi and Chittagong featured students blocking roads and forming human chains. At Rajshahi University, students obstructed the Dhaka-Rajshahi Highway, demanding effective measures to combat rape and ensure women’s safety. The protest commenced around 11:30 AM, and participants called for a special tribunal to expedite rape trials and for immediate governmental action to protect women.
Students from Rajshahi University and various local institutions marched together, articulating specific demands such as completing rape case trials in 30 days, standardizing DNA collection nationwide, and ensuring that all rapists face punishment. Class boycotts were organized in solidarity, and students plan to share blindfolded photographs on social media as a statement against rape.
In Manikganj, members of the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal formed a human chain on college grounds, protesting violence against women and expressing concern over the deteriorating law enforcement situation. Key student leaders highlighted the alarming rise in violence against women and the inadequacy of the current administration to resolve the issue, emphasizing the need for a responsive government.
Students at Chittagong University conducted a sit-in protest at 11:30 AM, advocating against murder, rape, and violence towards women. The presence of faculty attendees underscored the seriousness of the situation as protestors voiced their demand for the death penalty to be instituted for rapists. Participants argued that many sexual offenses remain hidden within a culture of impunity perpetuated by powerful offenders.
In the wake of these protests, calls for systemic reform have intensified, emphasizing the importance of addressing the flawed judicial processes that allow such violence to persist. At the forefront of these discussions is the need for educational reforms that instill a culture of respect and safety.
The ongoing protests highlight the urgent demand for justice and systemic change regarding sexual violence in the country. Students are united in their call for stricter penalties for offenders and reforms to enhance the judicial system. The collective actions taken by various university communities indicate a growing determination to combat this pervasive issue, emphasizing that systematic change is essential for the protection of all citizens, particularly women.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
