‘Delays in justice hamper protection efforts’

Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Minister Abu Zafar Md. Zahid Hossain has said that Bangladesh possesses a strong legal framework to safeguard the rights of women and children, but shortcomings in implementation and persistent social attitudes continue to pose major obstacles.

Addressing a citizens’ dialogue titled ‘Stand Up Against Violence Against Women and Children’ (Nari O Shishur Proti Sohingsotar Biroddhey Rukhey Darao) at the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad’s Anowara Begum-Munira Khan auditorium in Segunbagicha on Saturday morning, the minister stressed the need for effective enforcement of existing laws.

“The enforcement and practice of laws must be ensured properly. Although the government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drugs and violence, delays in the justice system remain a major problem in the country,” he said.

The programme was chaired by Bangladesh Mahila Parishad President Dr. Fauzia Moslem, while General Secretary Maleka Banu delivered the welcome address. Rekha Saha, Legal Aid Secretary of the organisation’s central committee, presented the written statement.

Highlighting broader social concerns, Zahid said the gradual erosion of moral and ethical values has added to the challenges of protecting the rights of women and children. He noted that lawyers have a crucial role in ensuring justice and called for an increase in adolescent clubs to strengthen awareness and capacity among young people.

The minister said public awareness campaigns should be expanded alongside efforts to ensure proper application of laws, with a focus on promoting women’s and children’s rights and building a more inclusive society.

Despite sustained efforts by government agencies and other stakeholders, violence against women and children remains deeply rooted in society, he observed. To address the issue more effectively, he emphasised the importance of modernising forensic services, strengthening victim protection mechanisms, ensuring greater responsibility among social media platforms and tackling drug abuse.

Referring to the government’s commitment to the positive use of technology, Zahid said the matter is receiving the highest priority. He also noted the increase in violence against women in 2025 and stressed that legal proceedings in such cases should continue without interference.

The minister announced that DNA laboratories are being established at divisional levels across the country. He also said One-Stop Crisis Centre (OCC) services are being expanded to 37 medical colleges, with plans to extend the facilities to every district in the next phase.

Calling for collective action, Zahid urged all sections of society to work together to prevent violence and uphold the rights of women and children.

Among others present at the event were former Appellate Division judge of the Bangladesh Supreme Court Krishna Debnath and Rasheda K. Choudhury, Executive Director of Campaign for Popular Education.