Bangladesh PM Orders Urgent Nationwide Drive to Stop Violence Against Women
Bangladesh PM launches nationwide drive to prevent violence against women and expedite trials.
Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed cabinet ministers and senior officials to launch a nationwide campaign aimed at tackling rape and violence against women, warning that urgent and tangible action is needed to address the rising incidents, local media reported.
Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani said the directive was issued during a cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister on Tuesday. “A suo motu directive was issued regarding rape cases that are occurring or have occurred in the past. Instructions have been given to take swift action to stop these crimes in society,” Ghani told The Daily Star.
The government plans to implement coordinated, multi-agency measures designed to prevent such crimes and expedite the disposal of cases currently under trial. Authorities have been instructed to ensure prompt investigations and trials through improved coordination among law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the judiciary.
Also Read: Siddaramaiah Highlights Role Of Women Congress Members Ahead Of April 9 Bypolls
Officials noted that district-level courts will be strengthened to facilitate speedy trials, while existing tribunals handling cases of violence against women will also be reinforced. Reports suggest that law enforcement agencies had anticipated a potential spike in such violence during and immediately after the Eid period, prompting the government to intensify preventive efforts.
The directive comes amid growing concerns over law and order, public safety, and market stability during the upcoming holiday period. Analysts also cite a broader rise in crime rates across the country, with women and children disproportionately affected. Police data reported by the Bengali daily Bonik Barta indicate that 1,81,737 cases, including rescue-related cases, were registered in 2025, with the majority involving violence against women and children.
The campaign reflects the government’s focus on tackling the long-standing perception of impunity stemming from delays in trials. By expediting legal processes and reinforcing institutional mechanisms, authorities aim to strengthen societal protection for women and restore public confidence in law enforcement during a period of heightened scrutiny and political sensitivity.
Also Read: Women Must Lead In Agriculture Policy And Decision-Making, Says President Murmu
