The incidents of rape have been plastered on the pages of Bangladeshi newspapers for quite some time. It is stressful to read such dreadful news. And what about the victim who has to endure this heinous inhumanity? Ever can the reader feel the terrible moment the victim goes through? What about the victim's trauma and psychology?
Bangladesh is grappling with a pervasive issue of sexual abuse against women. According to the "Rape Statistics by Country 2020" report by the World Population Review, there were 11,682 reported cases of rape per 100,000 people in Bangladesh, resulting in a rape rate of 9.82 per 100,000. Ain-o-Salish Kendra (ASK), a local human rights group, reported that in the first three months of 2024, 114 women were victims of rape, and 137 experienced domestic abuse. Shockingly, 65 of these women lost their lives, and 49 were compelled to commit suicide. These statistics underscore the urgent need for effective measures to prevent such crimes. Help groups say these numbers are likely only the tip of the iceberg because many women are afraid to report rape.
One example is the question, "What did she do out so late at night?" This blames the victim instead of the perpetrator. ASK says in more than 90% of rape cases, the accused is someone the victim knew. Thus, it doesn't matter if the girl went out at night.
The nature of the victim is another reason. When actress Pori Moni made a harassment claim, she was called a "prostitute" because she liked going out to drink and party. Similarly, Mosarrat Jahan Munia was criticized after her death for dating a wealthy married man. Many focused on her behavior rather than the violence she faced.
This thinking is helped by the idea that rapists are motivated by sexual urges. But studies show this isn't true; many rapists are married or have willing partners. Miller's Against Our Will argues that rape is driven by power, anger, or sadism. Early exposure to pornography and violent media also play a role.
To successfully fight this problem, we need to prioritize education. Schools must promote gender sensitivity and reject stereotypical portrayals of men and women. Empathy, respect, and mutual understanding should be central themes from childhood. We need programs that teach kids about consent, respect, and the right way to touch from a young age.
Laws that protect women must be implemented efficiently and without bias. Gaps between the intent of the law and its application can be bridged by gender-sensitive training for law enforcement and judicial officers. The media and entertainment must challenge stereotypes and portray women as equal contributors to society.
Social change is often driven from the grassroots. Activists and community leaders play a vital role in dismantling harmful traditions. Public campaigns, support groups for survivors, and more men speaking out against violence can change attitudes.
Ending rape requires more than punitive action; it demands a critical reevaluation of societal values. We must ensure that actions match our words. Only then can societies dream of eliminating violence against women. Let's make a promise to be the change we want to see in Bangladesh.
The writer is an Associate at Dhaka Jurists and Associates, Apprentice Lawyer, Dhaka Judges Court
