Special monitoring cell sought to end impunity in violence against women, children

Bangladesh Human Rights Foundation (BHRF) has demanded the formation of a special monitoring cell, speedy investigations and priority hearings in higher courts to end what it described as a culture of impunity in cases of violence against women and children.

At a press conference held on Sunday at the office of Bangladesh Crime Reporters Association in Segunbagicha, the organisation’s chairperson, Advocate Elina Khan, said that the rape and murder of child Ramisa had shaken the conscience of the nation.

She alleged that despite a growing number of incidents involving child rape, murder and abuse, victims are often denied justice due to lengthy legal procedures, negligence in investigations, delays in forensic reports, lack of witness protection and years-long pendency of cases in higher courts.

Elina Khan also said that public confidence in the justice system has eroded as many accused in high-profile cases escaped punishment because of flawed investigations and delayed trials.

Referring to remarks made by Ramisa’s father, she said a father’s statement �" “I do not want justice” �" reflected deep distrust in the state and its institutions. She urged the authorities to take effective measures to restore public confidence.

The organisation called for establishing a dedicated monitoring cell under the Law and Home Ministries to oversee cases related to violence against women and children and murder cases. It also urged coordinated steps to prevent unnecessary delays in higher courts after lower court verdicts, including the swift preparation of paper books and expedited hearings.

The rights body further demanded that inquest reports, postmortem examinations, DNA tests, viscera reports and other forensic reports be completed within seven days of filing a case. It also called for legal action and written explanations from investigating officers and doctors if reports are delayed beyond the stipulated timeframe.

Emphasising witness security, speedy hearings and quick disposal of cases in higher courts, Elina Khan said, “A clear message must be sent that no one will escape punishment after committing rape and murder.”