Alarming rise in violence against kids
Murder, rape, and other forms of violence against children increased significantly last year from the previous one, says a report by Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF).
At last 342 children were killed in violent incidents involving torture, abduction, and rape last year, according to the report.
Besides, some 902 children -- aged up to 18 -- fell victim to rape across the country.
In 2018, at least 272 children were killed in such incidents, and some 356 were raped, says the report.
The MJF, a non-government organisation, prepared the report based on news published in eight national dailies.
The findings were unveiled at a press conference at the Jatiya Press Club in the capital yesterday.
According to the report, some 433 children were killed in road crashes and 252 drowned last year. In 2018, road accidents killed at least 412 children.
Speaking at the event, MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam said the number of incidents of violence against children was rising because of delay in delivery of justice, which is alarming.
“The incidents take place one after another, but there is no remedy. For this, the perpetrators think they will not be brought to book,” she said.
Children are not safe even at their homes and educational institutions, where they spend most of the time of the day, Shaheen added.
The noted rights activist demanded quick delivery of justice and exemplary punishment to the culprits to stop violence against children.
She also urged the government to form a monitoring cell for the violence-related incidents, a separate department for children immediately, and ensure the formation of anti-sexual harassment committees at all educational institutions.
Speaking as the chief guest, lawmaker and rights activist Aroma Dutta said strict implementation of law and change in people’s mindset were necessary to prevent child rights violations.
Those who commit violence against children should think of their own children before doing any such wrongdoing, she added.
Last year, 504 positive news regarding children such as award receiving and good academic results were published in the eight newspapers, while the number of negative reports like those on murder, rape, and accident was 3,004, the report mentions.
Labour ministry Deputy Secretary Ruhul Amin and MJF Child Protection Unit Coordinator Rafeza Shaheen also spoke at the press conference.
Comments