Dhaka: Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman addressed the Jatiya Sangsad, emphasizing the swift trial in the Ramisa rape and murder case, attributing it to the government’s dedication, effective police investigation, and judicial support.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a special tribunal sentenced the primary accused, Sohel Rana and his wife Swapna Khatun, to death for their roles in the rape and murder of eight-year-old Ramisa Akhter. This case, described as one of the fastest-resolved major rape-murder cases in the country’s history, highlights the government’s commitment to justice. The crime occurred on May 19 in Dhaka’s Pallabi area, with the suspects apprehended within seven hours.
Minister Asaduzzaman underlined the government’s immediate response, noting that high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, visited the victim’s family. He claimed that the trial outcome restored Ramisa’s father’s faith in the judiciary, who was initially doubtful about receiving justice for his daughter’s tragic demise. The swift delivery of justice, accomplished by the judiciary, assured the victim’s family of the government’s dedication to punishing the perpetrators.
The police promptly completed their investigation, submitting a charge sheet within five days, which was quickly forwarded to the tribunal. To ensure a fair trial, the government appointed a defense lawyer. The Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunals continued operations during the judicial summer vacation, preventing delays in the trial process. Key judicial actions included framing charges on June 1, presenting witness testimonies from June 2 to 16, defense witness presentations on June 3, and concluding arguments on June 4, leading to today’s verdict.
Minister Asaduzzaman expressed that the judgment reinforces the public’s trust in the judiciary, viewing it as a significant governmental achievement. Ramisa’s father expressed satisfaction with the judgment, which the minister cited as a testament to the government’s commitment to its pledge against violence on women and children, ensuring a speedy trial process.
The tribunal also imposed financial penalties, ordering Sohel to pay Taka five lakh and Swapna Taka two lakh to the victim’s family. Should they fail to pay, the district collector is instructed to auction their properties to collect the fines. The verdict, delivered just 19 days post-incident, marks a landmark in the nation’s judicial proceedings, demonstrating the government’s resolve to deliver justice swiftly and decisively.