Rights activists, academics blame impunity
Incidents of violence against women are rising in the country as the perpetrators are able to commit the crimes with impunity, claimed women rights activists and academics yesterday.
They said existing laws protecting women's rights are not implemented properly by the authorities.
They made the remarks at a discussion on “Domestic Violence: Not Personal Rather Political” organised by Bangladesh Mahila Parishad and the Department of Women and Gender Studies of Dhaka University on the campus.
The discussion was part of a two week-long programme arranged by the organisers marking the international fortnightly campaign for elimination of violence against women and Human Rights Day.
With a call, “Academic Institutions Free from Sexual Harassment and All Forms of Violence”, the campaign began on November 25 and will end on December 9.
The campaign includes discussions, rallies, awareness building programmes, and rendition of folk songs.
Bangladesh Mahila Parishad President Ayesha Khanam emphasised training-based education for students to make them aware of violence against women and responsible enough to prevent it.
Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu said the main reason behind violence against women is discrimination.
The minister also alleged that stalkers who should be prosecuted for their crimes are instead walking away with impunity.
Chairperson of Women and Gender Studies Department Tania Haque chaired the discussion.
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