Rizvi Blames Govt Inaction for Rising Rape and Violence Against Women

"Why is this situation worsening under the current interim government? If the administration had performed its duties properly, incidents of rape, murder, injuries, and corruption would not have escalated to this extent," Rizvi said during a rally organized by Jatiyatabadi Mohila Dal in front of BNP's central office in Nayapaltan. The rally was held to protest the brutal rape of an eight-year-old girl in Magura and to demand the harshest possible punishment for the perpetrators.

Rizvi shared details of the disturbing case, stating that Achia, a young girl from Magura, was assaulted at her sister's house. "If a sister's in-laws' house is no longer a safe place for a child, where in this country is it safe?" Rizvi questioned, expressing outrage at the attack.

He further demanded that the government ensure the swift and exemplary punishment of the rapists, warning that only then would other offenders be deterred. "If this is done, it will restore the rule of law, something for which we have fought for 15 years and made countless sacrifices," he said. Rizvi drew historical parallels, recalling how Sheikh Hasina, the current Prime Minister, was ousted from power in the past for failing to uphold the rule of law.

Rizvi called on all political parties and student groups who were involved in the July-August mass protests to unite in efforts to combat crime and ensure that criminals are brought to justice. He emphasized that the government must take necessary actions to prevent such crimes and end the prevailing sense of lawlessness across the country.

The BNP leader also raised concerns about the state of the administration, saying that many individuals within it had suffered during the previous government but have now been promoted or even received double promotions. "The grievances you once had should no longer be an excuse. So, why isn’t administrative authority being exercised at the grassroots level, including in unions, wards, and thanas?" he questioned, highlighting a significant lapse in governance.

Rizvi criticized the current government for handling complaints from his party as personal attacks, claiming that in some cases, the government has retaliated subtly. "The reality now is that the number of rapes has skyrocketed, and women are no longer safe anywhere in the country. If you send your daughter to school, there is no guarantee she will return home safely," he said, lamenting the state of insecurity for women.

The BNP leader also pointed out the failure of law enforcement, recalling how police used to assure the public that offenders would not go unpunished. "But if the law had been enforced properly before the crimes occurred, ensuring the rule of law, such situations would not have arisen," he argued.

Rizvi then shifted focus to the Anti-Discrimination Movement, noting that students involved in the movement have been visiting the offices of Deputy Commissioners (DCs), Superintendents of Police (SPs), and various ministries. "We are grateful to the students and will not forget their contributions... but if they are giving instructions to the DCs, if they are giving orders to the SPs, if they are sitting in the rooms of DCs and SPs, how will the law be enforced?" he questioned, expressing concern that students may be overstepping their role in the process of justice.

In closing, Rizvi emphasized that students should focus their efforts on fighting injustice and discrimination on their campuses. "If the DCs or SPs engage in any wrongdoing, students can protest against it on campus. But your duty is not to supervise the DC's office or the SP’s room or various ministries," he urged, calling on the younger generation to maintain their focus on real issues of social justice.

This rally and the strong remarks from Rizvi reflect the growing public concern over violence against women and the perceived failure of the government to address it effectively.