Trial of Ramisa murder case to begin after Eid: Law Minister

The trial of the Pallabi child rape and murder case is expected to begin after Eid if the investigation report is submitted promptly, Law Minister Md. Asaduzzaman has said.

“We want to initiate the trial on a priority basis in such a way that no questions arise regarding the process,” he said on Saturday (May 23) while speaking at a workshop titled “Integrated Initiative in Legal Aid: Responsibilities and Implementation Strategy” held at BRAC Centre Auditorium in the capitals's Mohakhali.

The minister said forensic evidence, particularly DNA reports, is crucial in such cases. “A DNA report should not take more than 72 hours. We are hopeful that it can be delivered within a short time,” he added.

He also said the government is closely monitoring the reported rape and pregnancy of a madrasa student in Netrokona.

Highlighting legal aid initiatives, the minister said efforts are underway to bring government legal assistance services closer to citizens, particularly to support underprivileged and marginalized communities.

“We aim to ensure access to legal aid for the poor and vulnerable at their doorstep,” he said, adding that any inconsistencies or discrimination in legal frameworks would be addressed and removed where necessary.

The event was organized by the Department of Legal Aid and BRAC’s Social Empowerment and Legal Protection Programme. It was chaired by Director General of the Legal Aid Department Monjurul Hossain and attended by Law Secretary Khademul Kayes, Deputy Director Masuda Yasmin, Assistant Director Shashwati Bipul, among others.

Representatives from several human rights organizations, including BLAST, Manusher Jonno Foundation, Ain o Salish Kendra and UNDP, also spoke at the open discussion session.