Dhaka (Agencies): Bangladesh has passed a new law aimed at expediting the investigation and trial process in rape cases, following national outrage over the rape and death of an eight-year-old girl. The tragic incident, which occurred in early March in Magura, southwestern Bangladesh, led to widespread protests and renewed demands for stronger protections for women and children.
The young victim was staying at her elder sister-in-law’s home when she was assaulted. She was admitted to the Combined Military Hospital in Dhaka in critical condition and fought for her life for six days before succumbing to her injuries. Thousands of people participated in her funeral prayers in Magura, with an absentee funeral and protest march also held at Dhaka University.
The growing public anger pressured the government to amend laws related to sexual violence. On Thursday, Bangladesh’s Advisory Council, led by Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus, approved amendments to the Women and Children Repression Prevention Ordinance.
The new law significantly reduces the timeline for handling rape cases—halving the investigation period from 30 to 15 days and limiting trials to a maximum of 90 days instead of the previous 180. A special tribunal will also be established to handle child rape cases exclusively.
Another key reform is the removal of the mandatory DNA test requirement, allowing trials to proceed based on medical certificates and circumstantial evidence. Previously, cases often stalled as victims and families struggled to provide DNA samples in time.
“To ensure speedy trial and punishment of rape suspects, this reform was necessary. It will also help in ensuring proper investigation,” said Azad Majumder, the chief adviser’s deputy press secretary.
Bangladesh has strict laws against child rape, with the crime punishable by death. However, many cases go unreported. Data from Ain o Salish Kendra, a leading women’s rights organization, shows that over 5,600 rape cases involving minors have been reported in the past decade—though the actual figures are believed to be much higher.
Advocates stress the need for better police responsiveness and courtroom protections for child victims. “Sometimes, our police stations don’t respond immediately to rape cases. If their responses were quick, evidence collection would be easier,” said Elina Khan of the Bangladesh Human Rights Foundation. She also called for stricter accountability measures to ensure investigations are completed within the new legal timeframe.
While the legal reforms mark a significant step toward justice, activists emphasize that effective implementation, proper monitoring, and accountability will be key to making the system work for victims.