We love to take pride in the success of women, but are we doing enough to protect our female counterparts from the evils of our society? There is no denying that the incumbent government has taken a number of initiatives to prevent gender-based violence but hitherto incidents of violence against women happen almost every day in our country. Also, the pandemic has resulted in an increase in cases of violence against women.
In accordance with a recent national adolescent health and well-being survey in Bangladesh, around one in five female adolescents (ages 15-19 years) reported experiencing physical violence at least once in the last 12 months. For married girls, the perpetrators were primarily their husbands. According to a report by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), at least 476 women were raped in the country in the first six months of 2022. Reportedly, a total of 228 women were victims of domestic violence between January and June this year. Of them, 140 were killed and 42 died by suicide.
We are deeply concerned over the incidents of violence against women and demand speedy trial in all the cases. We believe that the number of such incidents will reduce if the trials are completed within a short period.
Sexual abuse has long been
sidelined in Bangladesh and
this must be changed
It needs no mentioning that diminishing social and family values and a culture of impunity are the primary reasons behind rising trend in violence against women. Moreover, because of the social stigma associated with sexual violence, many of the incidents go unreported.
Considering the situation, spreading awareness about the importance of reporting incidents of abuse has become pertinent to end violence against women. We need to raise public awareness on recognising and preventing all forms of abuse.
There are many instances where the perpetrators come out on bail after getting arrested. Considering the situation, the government must adopt tough legal measures to prosecute rapists and violators in no time. Also, we must adopt a zero-tolerance policy against violence against women.
In order to end violence against women, streamlining better processes to facilitate complaints and provide counselling and medical help are imperative. Sexual abuse has long been sidelined in Bangladesh and this must be changed. Last but not least, Bangladesh should strive to become a role model in eradicating violence against women and children.
