Shafiul Ahmed Supto

‎Bangladesh is currently facing a significant increase in incidents of sexual violence, particularly affecting women and children. Since the advent of the interim government on August 8, there has been a noticeable rise in reported cases of rape and sexual assault. This situation highlights the need for strengthening our legal and social frameworks to better protect the most vulnerable members of our society. The government has expressed a commitment to reform, and it is crucial to work together toward improving safety for all.

‎Data shows an uptick in reported rape cases, with many more likely going unreported due to societal stigma, fear of retaliation, and a lack of trust in law enforcement. It’s important to acknowledge that survivors often face victim-blaming and insufficient support. Moreover, when cases do move forward in the judicial system, delays in the process can add to the trauma experienced by survivors.

Recently, An eight-year-old girl who was raped while visiting her sister’s in-laws' house in Magura is still unconscious three days after the incident, with doctors saying her condition is critical. Alongside, high-profile cases of rapes in urban and rural areas have sparked public demonstrations, emphasizing the need for thorough protection and the responsibility of the interim government to safeguard its citizens.

‎The prevailing justice system has historical challenges in adequately handling sexual violence cases. Survivors may undergo difficult medical examinations and face insensitive inquiries during the legal process. Influential individuals sometimes avoid accountability due to the interplay between power and justice. Law enforcement agencies also face criticism for inefficiencies, such as case delays and a lack of proper support for victims. Addressing these issues is essential to create a safer environment for everyone.

In response to this crisis, mobilization from students, activists, and civil society showcases the public's desire for meaningful reform. There is a strong call for implementing robust legal frameworks and ensuring accountability from the interim government to effectively tackle this critical issue. While there are concerns about the movement’s potential politicization, it is vital to stay focused on the urgency of addressing this crisis.

‎To make meaningful progress, we need immediate and effective measures. Promises of reform must be translated into actionable steps that ensure justice and protection for all citizens. Strengthening legal protections, including consistent enforcement of rape laws, is imperative. Establishing special tribunals to facilitate faster processing of cases can help survivors avoid lengthy waits for justice.

Equally important is holding law enforcement accountable for neglecting their duties and creating safe channels for victims to report crimes without fear of intimidation. Expanding support services—such as shelters, mental health counseling, and legal assistance—is essential to ensure survivors feel cared for and supported.

‎A cultural shift is also necessary, which involves educational initiatives to address toxic masculinity and foster respectful behavior among men and boys. It is critical that every perpetrator, regardless of their status, is accountable for their actions, ensuring the law applies uniformly across all levels of society.

‎Bangladesh stands at a crucial moment in addressing this pressing issue. Every woman and child deserves the right to live free from fear. The interim government has a valuable opportunity to demonstrate a genuine commitment to justice by taking decisive actions against sexual violence and ensuring clear accountability. As we navigate these challenges together, the focus must remain on collaboration and constructive efforts. ‎Now is the time to transform good intentions into effective action.

The writer is a, Student, Department of Management, Islamic University, Kushtia