by Rita Bhowmick (Dhaka Bureau)
Human rights organization Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has expressed deep concern and indignation over the increasing incidents of sexual violence against children in Bangladesh.
Following the recent rape of a 10-year-old student at a madrasa in Kushtia, the organization has demanded exemplary punishment for the perpetrators and the immediate implementation of effective measures to protect children.
In a statement released on Wednesday (March 18), MJF stated that such atrocities against children within educational institutions like madrasas prove a severe lack of monitoring and accountability. The victim from Bheramara, Kushtia, is currently fighting for her life in the hospital. Although three individuals, including the head of the madrasa, have been arrested, MJF maintains that arrests alone are not enough; there must be summary trials and exemplary punishment.
Shaheen Anam, Executive Director of the organization, said, ‘Many perpetrators hide behind the veil of institutions, taking advantage of fear and social silence. Generally, these incidents do not come to light until there is severe physical harm or death. Because children do not get the opportunity to speak out, they are facing even greater risks.’
Citing data from Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), the statement highlighted an alarming picture of violence against children. It noted that in the first two months of 2026 (January-February), a total of 71 incidents of violence against children were documented. Among the victims, 38 girls and 2 boys were raped, while an additional 14 girls were subjected to attempted rape.
Records from 2025 show that a total of 1,024 incidents of violence against children were documented last year.
MJF believes that children are not safe anywhere- whether at home, school, madrasas, or public places. To overcome this crisis, they have placed several urgent demands on the relevant government authorities:
1. Sexual Harassment Prevention Law: A comprehensive law to prevent sexual harassment must be passed in the National Parliament as soon as possible.
2. Implementation of High Court Directives: Until the law is passed, ‘Sexual Harassment Prevention Committees’ must be formed in every educational institution across the country, in accordance with High Court directives.
3. Neutral Investigation and Fast-Track Trials: Every incident must be investigated neutrally, and judicial processes must be completed swiftly to ensure exemplary punishment for the offenders.
4. Awareness Building: Extensive awareness regarding child protection must be created at all levels of society, including educational institutions and among parents.
The statement emphasized that ensuring the protection of children is a fundamental responsibility of both the state and society. The current situation proves there is a significant lapse in fulfilling this duty. Civil society and human rights organizations stand ready to provide all necessary assistance to the government to ensure this security.
MJF aims to create an environment where children can grow up with freedom and full security, without any fear.
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The Author:
Rita Bhowmick: Senior Journalist. Correspondent, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.