HC rule on compensating Manikganj rape victim

The High Court today issued a rule asking the government to explain in four weeks why it should not be directed to compensate Tk 50 lakh to the 22-year-old girl who “was raped by two police officers of Saturia Police Station” in February this year.

In the rule, the court also asked the authorities concerned of the government to show cause why their failure to prevent the incident of rape should not be declared illegal.

The court also directed the government to submit a report on the steps taken for protection and safety of girls, women and children from sexual abuse across the country before this court by April 18.

It also directed the government to outline the scheme or guideline to make sure that the government-controlled houses, motels, guesthouses, hotels, rest houses, government guest houses, police stations, restrooms, safe homes and public places are adequately safe and secure for women, girls and children.

Read more

Two cops face rape allegation

The High Court bench of Justice Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury and Justice Md Ashraful Kamal came up with the rule and order following a writ petition filed by Children’s Charity Bangladesh Foundation and Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust seeking necessary order.

Home secretary, inspector general of police, superintendent of police and additional superintendent of police of Manikganj and officer-in-charge of Saturia Police Station have been made respondents to the rule.

Sub-inspector Sekendar Hossain and Assistant Sub-inspector Mazharul Islam of Saturia Police Station in Manikganj allegedly raped a 22-year-old woman after she was held captive.

A probe committee found the allegation of rape against two Manikganj police officers to be true.

The duo was arrested and placed on a six-day remand on February 12 in a case filed over the rape.

Barrister Md Abdul Halim appeared for the writ petitioners.