Various organizations working to prevent child abuse in Chittagong recently formed a human chain, demanding swift justice for child domestic worker Rahima’s rape case and all other child and women torture cases. The demonstration, held on May 26 in front of the Chattogram Press Club, saw speakers advocating for the safety of domestic workers, effective measures to prevent child abuse, and exemplary punishment for rapists.
During the human chain, it was highlighted that a child domestic worker named Rahima reported sexual abuse via the government child helpline 1098. Based on her complaint, officials from the Department of Social Services, Chattogram District Office, rescued her from a locked room and filed a complaint with the relevant police station.
Zinat Ara Begum, a representative from Aparajeyo Bangladesh, stated, “Rahima suffered physical and mental abuse for days. Seeing information about the 1098 hotline on television, she bravely called and managed to rescue herself. This incident proves that such abuse is constantly occurring unbeknownst to us. To ensure the safety of children like Rahima, both legal frameworks and public awareness are crucial.”
Mohammed Ali Shahin from YPSA remarked, “Incidents of abuse against child domestic workers are a constant occurrence in our society. The swift resolution and exemplary punishment in Rahima’s case can play an effective role in preventing such incidents.”
Mahbubul Alam, Divisional Coordinator of Aparajeyo Bangladesh, emphasized, “If this case faces prolonged delays, it will send a terrifying message to society. It is urgent that the case filed based on the 1098 complaint is resolved through quick judgment and punishment.”
Md. Sirajul Islam from Ghassful asserted, “No other domestic worker like Rahima should be subjected to such abuse. Enacting separate laws for their protection and proper implementation of existing laws are the demands of the hour. We must be active and humane in protecting children.”
Suchitra Mitra from Shongshoptok described, “Today’s human chain is a symbol of building social resistance against rape and abuse. Swift justice and maximum punishment for Rahima’s rapist must be ensured.”
Other speakers at the human chain also stressed the need for effective enforcement of laws and active participation of law enforcement agencies to prevent future abuse of children like Rahima. Among those present were development worker Abdus Sobur, Md. Ruhul Mohir (Momota), Shyamsree Das (development worker), women’s rights activist Farhana Idris, Sanjida Akter, and many others.
The participating organizations announced their commitment to building a larger social movement to ensure a quick trial in Rahima’s case and to secure the rights and safety of child domestic workers.
