ASK warns of rising child abuse crisis

Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has raised alarm over a sharp rise in child rape, abuse and killings in Bangladesh, saying recent incidents, including the killing of seven-year-old Ramisa Akter in Pallabi, reflect deep flaws in the country’s child protection system.

In a statement, the human rights organisation said the incidents are not isolated cases but indicate systemic failures in law enforcement, justice delivery and social accountability.

Citing its monitoring data, ASK said at least 118 children were raped and 46 others were victims of attempted rape between January and May 20, 2026. During the same period, 17 children were reportedly killed following rape or attempted rape, reports media.

The organisation said despite constitutional guarantees and national policies ensuring child protection, weak investigations and delayed judicial processes are denying justice to victims and eroding public trust. ASK called for fast-track judicial handling of all child abuse cases, along with independent and transparent investigations free from political or social influence.

It also urged the state to strengthen monitoring mechanisms in schools, homes and online platforms, and ensure strict enforcement of child protection laws.

The rights body said protecting children is a constitutional duty and a fundamental test of a civilised society, warning that failure in this regard undermines both state responsibility and public confidence.