More importance should be given on the practice of values

Incidents of violence against women and girls are often seen in the news media. Unfortunately, it is true that women and girls are often victimized more by familiar individuals than by strangers. However, in most cases, these incidents are not reported. Due to societal shame and social bonds, efforts are made to suppress these issues within families and society.

In a world filled with so much bad news, perhaps the most distressing is news of physical violence. When faced with such brutality, it raises questions about how far we have truly advanced as a civilization. Why is such barbaric behavior still prevalent among humans?

According to multiple news reports published yesterday (March 10), in Sunamganj, a group of miscreants abducted and sexually assaulted a young girl after kidnapping her lover. An Awami League leader and his associates have been accused in this incident. In this incident, the victim girl filed a case against the rapists.

We know from experience that such cases are often settled in compromise. The accused may be compelled to pay some penalty to the victimized woman and her family. These news stories often appear in newspapers, and sometimes, when we read them, they evoke a sense of sadness within us. However, we even don't always get the opportunity to express our reactions more extensively.

In 2016, the country witnessed a strong reaction following the brutal rape and murder incident of Sohagi Jahan Tonu in Comilla. Before that, Bangladesh was shaken by protests against the rape and murder of teenager Yasmin in Dinajpur in 1995. In 2020, there was also protest across the capital following incidents of sexual assault on female students at Dhaka University.

The Bangladesh Women's Council's research indicates that in August of last year, 273 women and girls fell victim to violence in the country, including 135 children. Among them, the most prevalent forms of violence were rape and murder, which accounted for 43 cases, out of 35 types of violence including rape, murder, acid attacks, abduction, or instigation to suicide.

Despite the existence of progressive laws and policies regarding the physical and mental health of women and children, as well as sexual violence prevention in the country, the situation of child abuse in Bangladesh remains concerning due to the lack of proper implementation of the appropriate laws and awareness. Hence, it is evident that despite advancements in various fields, the societal mindset regarding women still lags behind, which is a matter of concern.

It has been observed that survivors of sexual violence, both women and children, often suffer from various physical and mental health problems in their subsequent lives. This issue becomes a major obstacle to progress, and its adverse effects are reflected in many aspects of society. Moreover, it is not only women and girls who are victims of sexual violence; there is also a growing concern about incidents of sexual abuse against boys. Perpetrators of sexual violence can be of any gender, not just men, but also women.

Often, cases of violence or harassment against women and girls do not reach the courts in many instances. Additionally, due to the influential connections of perpetrators, families of victims do not receive proper justice. Sometimes, perpetrators even receive support from powerful individuals, including politicians.

Therefore, ensuring the rights, education, and safety of women and children are essential goals in building a prosperous Bangladesh. In pursuit of this objective, the government has adopted national policies for child welfare and women's development. Despite significant reductions in child marriage and notable declines in rates of violence against women due to these initiatives, the expected decrease has not yet been achieved.

Therefore, ensuring a safe and healthy environment, quality education, and healthcare, as well as an oppression-free social system, are essential for women and children. Alongside, everyone should practice humane behavior towards women and children, and emphasize the discussion of ethics and values even more.