Bangladesh is witnessing a concerning rise in violence against women and children, with the Awami League highlighting a surge in incidents this year following a disturbing trend in 2025. The party expressed growing public worry about safety, stating that women and children in the country are living in fear and insecurity, both in public spaces and at home. Reports of rape, gang rape, sexual assault, and related crimes are being reported almost daily nationwide, painting a grim picture of the situation.
The Awami League criticized the current Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government led by Tarique Rahman, accusing it of failing to fulfill governance promises and address the escalating crisis. The party emphasized that the frequent incidents of violence are not isolated cases but a national emergency. Despite the government’s warnings and ‘zero tolerance’ stance, the party argued that vulnerable citizens are not adequately protected, leading to a breakdown of social order.
Expressing concerns over the deteriorating security environment, the Awami League questioned the government’s ability to ensure the safety of children, even on their way to school. Referring to data from rights groups, including Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) and Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, the party highlighted the alarming number of rape cases, particularly involving minors. The data revealed a significant increase in rape cases, with a substantial portion affecting children, indicating a troubling trend that demands urgent attention and action.
The Awami League stressed the gravity of the situation, pointing out that a large percentage of rape victims are underage girls, signaling a profound moral and legal crisis in society. The party also raised concerns about the rise in child rape cases in early 2026 compared to previous years, attributing this trend to a culture of impunity that emboldens offenders. It called for international attention and support to address the governance and justice crisis in Bangladesh, urging global institutions to prioritize protection and accountability measures to combat the escalating violence.
