Dhaka: Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul announced that the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act is being amended to ensure swift and proper justice in rape cases. The investigation period for such cases will be reduced from 30 to 15 days, and the trial completion time will be shortened from 180 to 90 days. Dr. Nazrul shared these details following a meeting with leaders of the Anti-Rape Platform at the Secretariat.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the government has prepared a draft of the amended act, aiming to halve the trial and investigation time for rape cases. Dr. Nazrul emphasized the importance of both speed and justice in these cases. The amended draft includes a provision allowing case proceedings and investigations to continue based on a medical certificate, even without a DNA report, if deemed necessary by the judge.
Dr. Nazrul highlighted the significant role women played during the mass uprising, acknowledging their vital contribution to the struggle against fascist rule. He noted the government’s zero-tolerance policy against violence towards women, particularly addressing recent attacks justified by distorted religious interpretations. The adviser assured that the Magura child rape case is being handled vigilantly, with DNA samples already collected.
The anti-rape platform leaders demanded the introduction of special courts for rape cases, citing delays due to the backlog of cases in the current system. Dr. Nazrul acknowledged the logic behind this demand and committed to raising the issue in the Advisory Council discussions.
Additionally, the platform called for dedicated anti-abuse cells in educational institutions and workplaces, aligning with a High Court verdict. Dr. Nazrul promised to enact a comprehensive law covering educational institutions, workplaces, and public spaces, aiming to make it stricter.
The memorandum submitted by the Anti-Rape Platform highlighted concerns about the lack of enforcement of the death penalty in rape cases, referencing unresolved cases like those of Mosarat Jahan Munia and Sohagi Jahan Tanu. The platform’s key demands included a special tribunal for the Magura rape case, rapid investigation and trial, and the establishment of dedicated anti-abuse cells.
Dr. Asif Nazrul expressed full support for the platform’s demands, acknowledging their reasonableness and justifiability, and emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing these concerns.