Justice for rape victims remains a far cry

We regularly read or hear about atrocities like rape and sexual harassment being committed in our society. Such heinous crimes make the headlines of our leading newspapers almost every other day. Yet, despite such occurrences, there is a dearth of diligence and promptness in ensuring strict punishment being meted out to sexual predators. Why are the procedures of such cases delayed till the point of public indifference?

Sohagi Jahan Tonu, a victim of such negligence, had succumbed to death after being raped by a group of goons. There has been no progress in the investigation despite there being clear evidence of rape and murder. The lax attitude displayed by the state prosecution members of the high court also shows our collective indifferent disposition as a nation. Justice for Tonu, which her family members have been demanding since March 20, 2016, remains elusive. The takeaway from this tragedy is the prevailing suspicion among the general masses regarding the effectiveness of prosecution of and conviction in cases of sex crimes.

The Bangladesh government has been lauded for ensuring empowerment of women in many sectors; but sadly, their role in ensuring justice for victims of sex crimes remains limited. Our judicial system must be more proactive in completing the trials related to such cases and serving exemplary punishment to the perpetrators.