- Bangladesh government to strengthen laws against violence and harassment of women.
- New legal provisions to expedite investigations and trials of rape cases.
- DNA forensic facilities to be expanded in every district.
- Toll-free hotline to be launched for sexual harassment complaints.
- Law amendments expected within weeks after consultation with stakeholders.
The government of Bangladesh is taking decisive steps to curb violence and harassment against women, Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul announced on Saturday, March 9. Addressing a media briefing after a high-level law and order meeting at his ministry, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring justice and preventing abuse.
“Violence, torture, and rape against women in Bangladesh are unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Dr. Nazrul stated. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus was also present at the meeting, which was called urgently following recent incidents of gender-based violence.
Swift Investigation and Trial
The government is set to introduce stricter timelines for rape case investigations and trials. Specifically, Dr. Nazrul detailed that the time for completing investigations will be reduced to 15 days, while trials must conclude within 90 days.
“If the trial is not completed within 90 days, the accused will not be granted bail,” he emphasized. Under the current law, bail could be granted if a trial remained incomplete after 180 days. Therefore, the proposed amendment seeks to eliminate such loopholes to prevent delays in justice.
To further strengthen the process, law enforcement officials responsible for investigating cases will not be changed until the process is completed, ensuring continuity and efficiency in handling legal proceedings.
DNA Forensic Expansion and Legal Amendments
A major challenge in rape cases is the delay caused by inadequate forensic facilities. To address this issue, the government plans to establish DNA forensic laboratories in every district. This measure is expected to expedite the collection and examination of crucial evidence.
Furthermore, Dr. Nazrul stated, “We will discuss with our partners to bring necessary amendments that allow trials to proceed based on medical certificates when DNA analysis is delayed.”
Moreover, the government is considering disciplinary action against officials who show negligence in handling rape cases. To ensure accountability, a dedicated cell in the Law Ministry will oversee rape investigations.
Dedicated Hotline
To enhance victim support, the Home Ministry will introduce a toll-free hotline for sexual harassment complaints. The hotline will be operational 24/7, and complaints will be addressed within 24 hours.
A separate unit within the Home Ministry will monitor street harassment cases, while a new cell in the Law Ministry will specifically oversee rape case investigations.
Steps for Law Reform
The government intends to finalize legal amendments within weeks. Meanwhile, consultations with key stakeholders, including legal experts and human rights groups, are ongoing.
“After discussions, we aim to draft amendments within a week. However, passing the law may take additional time,” Dr. Nazrul stated. He acknowledged demands for immediate justice but emphasized that, while speed is crucial, fairness in legal proceedings must not be compromised.
Additionally, Information and Broadcasting Adviser Mahfuz Alam attended the briefing. Further updates on the legal changes and implementation plans are expected soon.