‘Rise in rape cases reflects improved reporting system’

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said the increase in recorded rape cases in the country reflects an improved reporting environment rather than a rise in incidents of violence.

Speaking in Parliament during the discussion on the Home Ministry’s budgetary demand and cut motions, he said victims are now able to file cases without social or political interference, which previously discouraged many from seeking justice.

The minister said rape survivors often could not or did not lodge complaints in the past due to stigma and political influence. “Now, whenever someone goes to a police station, the case is recorded. People can also submit general diaries (GD) and FIRs online. There is no interference in this process,” he said.

He added that government data shows improvements in several crime indicators, including murder, violence against women and children, and robbery, since the current administration took office.

According to him, the only category showing an increase is the number of recorded rape cases.
Salahuddin said law enforcement agencies are now responding more effectively, including quicker arrests, submission of charge sheets, and active support during trials. He cited the speedy trial in the Ramisa murder case, which was completed within 15 to 17 days, as a record for the country.

Referring to the 2016 Tonu murder case, the minister said suspects had recently been arrested based on DNA evidence, and investigations into other pending cases were progressing.

He further claimed that police are acting against offenders regardless of political affiliation, stating that “criminals are being identified as criminals.”

The home minister also said two new laws have been placed in Parliament to strengthen law enforcement and address emerging challenges, including drugs and online gambling.

He added that the government plans to upgrade the Department of Narcotics Control into a fully equipped agency with forensic laboratories, dog squads, and modern enforcement capabilities in every district.

Salahuddin stressed that updated legislation is necessary to tackle modern forms of gambling and cyber-related offences, replacing outdated colonial-era laws.