Students in Bangladesh are protesting against rising gender-based violence and demanding the resignation of Home Affairs Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. Triggered by a recent case of a minor girl raped, protests across various universities reflect deep concerns over women’s safety and the government’s failure to address lawlessness. Calls for stricter punishment and accountability are central to the protests.
In Bangladesh, hundreds of students organized protests in various regions, including the capital city Dhaka, to address the alarming rise in sexual violence under the interim government of Muhammad Yunus. The demonstrators demanded justice for victims of rape, stricter penalties for perpetrators, and the resignation of Home Affairs Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, as they expressed frustration over the deteriorating safety of women in the country.
The recent case of a minor girl, currently in critical condition after being raped, spurred these protests. Throughout the demonstrations, students emphasized the pervasive sense of insecurity, stating, “We have reached a point where we are all victims. The government cannot ensure our safety.” The protestors highlighted that no female individual, regardless of age or ability, is safe in the existing climate of violence, pressing for severe consequences for offenders, including the death penalty for rapists.
Educators and students from various universities, such as Dhaka University and North South University, participated in these protests, reflecting a broader concern regarding the country’s law enforcement and increasing sexual violence. The ‘University Teachers’ Network’ convened at Dhaka University to condemn these acts and discuss their underlying causes. Professor Tasneem Siraj Mahboob advocated for the Home Affairs Advisor’s dismissal, suggesting it would offer him an “honourable exit.”
Since the emergence of the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in August 2024, reports of violence against women have surged significantly. Fauzia Moslem, President of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, noted, “Society is descending into chaos, where lawlessness and criminal impunity are growing,” highlighting the failures of law enforcement and a lack of accountability that embolden criminals.
In conclusion, the protests in Bangladesh underscore the urgent demand for action against rising gender-based violence. Students and educators are uniting to call for accountability in law enforcement and the resignation of government officials who are perceived as failing to protect women’s rights. The alarming increase in sexual violence since the current regime took power illustrates the pressing need for both societal and systemic reforms to ensure safety and justice for all citizens.
Original Source: www.thehansindia.com
