MJF seeks fair probe, justice

Manusher Jonno Foundation, an organisation working on human rights and governance issues, and its 17 associate child rights groups, yesterday demanded a fair investigation into the incident and exemplary punishment for those responsible for the tragic death of four-year-old Jihad.

In a statement, MJF expressed its concern at, what it said, the negligence of the authorities concerned and irresponsibility in rescuing Jihad from a well.

The statement signed by MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam said the expertise and responsibility of the individuals and institutions concerned were questionable.

The harassment of Jihad's family was also inhumane, it added.

MJF demanded that safety measures be taken after identifying all the unprotected pipes, canals, manholes, holes, construction sites and abandoned sites across the country.

Bangladesh which ratified the UN's children charter, is committed to ensuring a safe environment for all children, the statement mentioned.

Jihad fell down the 300-foot well while playing with other children in the capital's Shahjahanpur Railway Colony Friday.

His body was pulled out by a group of volunteers around 3:00pm the following day, shortly after the government agencies called off the rescue bid saying there was no sign of the boy inside the well.