Social resistance to prevent violence against women

Violence against women has been continuing down the ages and even advancement in science, technology and education has failed to stop this. This is indeed a matter of shame for the people of a modern, civilised and democratic society. Violence against women is a criminal offence. There are strict laws to deal with such crime. However, despite all this, women remain victims of violence. In fact, violence against women is on the rise in certain countries.

As part of the effort to resolve this problem, the United Nations declared 25 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Every year from 25 November to 10 December, a 16-day campaign for elimination of violence against women is observed. This campaign has started from 25 November and in Bangladesh the slogan this time is, ‘Leave no one behind: End violence against women and girls’.

Violence against women is a serious problem in our country and calls for special attention. Despite stringent laws, violence against women and girls is on a steady rise.  According to Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, 834 incidents of rape have taken place in the country during the first 10 months of this year. Last year, the total number of rape incidents was 705. And the even more brutal aspect of these rapes is that 70 per cent of the victims are minor girls. There has also been an alarming increase in gang rapes and killing after rape. Last year 212 gang rapes took place and 31 were killed after being raped. In the first 10 months of this year, 1737 women and girls were victims of various types of violence, including rape. This was 1453 last year.

A total of 76 per cent of girls face various sorts of harassment in university. And 80 per cent of the women are physically, mentally and sexually abused by their husbands. Many women are tortured and even killed for dowry.

The published statistics do not give an accurate picture of violence against women. Various studies show that 70 per cent of the rape incidents remain unknown to the media and the police. Many of the rape victims and their families remain silent due to social shame, threats by the rapists and even death threats.

This intolerable situation must end. The law must be implemented effectively. But that is not enough. Each and everyone must come forward to ensure the safety of women and girls in all families and institutions.