NN Online
The number of rape incidents in Bangladesh more than doubled in March compared to February, alongside an increase in cases of rape-murder. In March, a total of 428 cases of sexual violence, attempted rape, and other forms of violence against women were reported, marking a significant rise from the previous month.
This data was revealed in the March human rights report published by the Manobadhikar Sanskriti Foundation (MSF) on Monday (March 31). The report is compiled based on various newspaper articles and the organization’s own investigations.
According to the MSF report, 132 cases of rape were recorded in March, compared to 57 in February. Cases of gang rape also rose from 17 in February to 25 in March. Additionally, attempted rape cases surged from 19 in February to 61 in March.
The report highlights the alarming increase in violence against women and children, particularly rape, despite the presence of strict laws in the country. It attributes the rise in such crimes to lack of effective enforcement, impunity, and delays in justice, which embolden criminals. The failure of law enforcement agencies to take prompt action has exacerbated the situation, increasing public concerns over safety.
Additionally, MSF noted that mugging, extortion, and robbery have also seen a worrying rise due to police inaction and negligence.
The report also highlights deaths in police custody and incidents of torture by law enforcement in March. Political violence, particularly within opposition parties, has continued to escalate.
According to MSF, 52 incidents of political violence were recorded in March, affecting 459 people, including 12 deaths and 447 injuries. Among the deceased were six BNP activists, three Awami League members, one pedestrian, one elderly man, and one expatriate. Notably, three victims were caught in intra-party conflicts within the BNP despite not being involved in politics.
