Zakir Hossain from Dhaka
The brutal rape and murder of a young girl in Dhaka’s Pallabi has triggered nationwide outrage, even as a rights group warned of a sharp rise in child abuse, rape and killings in Bangladesh.
A report by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) said the growing number of such incidents reflects “not isolated acts of violence but a broader failure of state protection mechanisms and social accountability.”
According to ASK data, at least 118 children were raped between January and May 20, 2026, while 46 survived attempted rape. At least 17 children were killed following rape or attempted rape during the same period.
The organisation noted that Bangladesh’s Constitution guarantees children the rights to life, dignity and security under Articles 28 and 32, alongside protections under the National Children Policy 2011 and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. However, it said weak investigations and lengthy judicial processes continue to delay justice, eroding public confidence.
ASK demanded swift trials, independent and transparent investigations free from political or social influence, and stronger safety measures in schools, homes and digital spaces with stricter enforcement of child protection laws.
The latest outrage follows the killing of seven-year-old Ramisa Akter in Pallabi. Police said her body was recovered from beneath a bed in a neighbour’s flat, while her severed head was later found in a bathroom.
The main accused, Sohel Rana, has been arrested and reportedly gave a confessional statement under Section 164, admitting to the rape and killing. His wife, Swapna Khatun, has also been arrested and sent to jail.
Prime minister Tarique Rahman visited the victim’s home on Thursday night, met the grieving family and offered condolences. The incident has sparked protests, human chains and demonstrations across Dhaka and other districts demanding swift justice and maximum punishment.
In a significant move, the Dhaka Bar Association announced that none of its members will provide legal defence in the case.
Home minister Salahuddin Ahmed said the charge sheet is expected to be filed on Sunday, with DNA testing underway at the CID laboratory. “We are working to ensure the fastest possible trial and maximum punishment,” he said, adding that legal amendments related to child rape and murder are under consideration.
The government has also assured full support for the victim’s surviving sister, including education and welfare assistance.