TIB seeks judicial probe into cops’ role over Nusrat murder

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Thursday demanded judicial probe into the alleged negligence of duty by police in connection with the murder of Feni madrasa girl Nusrat Jahan Rafi, reports UNB.

The anti-graft watchdog in a statement also demanded strong enforcement of law to ensure punishment of those involved in the murder.

"Violence against women across the country considering the number and gravity of atrocities now reached at a level which is unimaginable. There is no alternative to ensuring strict enforcement of law against the responsible people and their associates to deal with this situation," said the statement.

TIB executive director Iftekharuzzaman said, "We hope investigation will be carried out properly and the responsible people will get exemplary punishment. But, we are worried about the allegations brought against the police officials concerned over their negligence of duty and connection in the incident."

Each allegation against the police officials concerned should be investigated properly and the police officials concerned as well as the overall police administration should be brought under accountability, he said.

Withdrawal of a police official from a police station can't be a punishment, said Iftekharuzzaman adding, "Country's people want to see proper implementation of the prime minister's assurance that none of those involved in the murder will be spared."

On 6 April, Nusrat was set afire at an examination centre allegedly by people loyal to the principal of her madrasa after he was arrested and subsequently suspended as she had accused him of sexually harassing her in Sonagazi upazila of Feni district.

Nusrat Jahan lost her battle for life on 10 April at Dhaka Medical College Hospital in the capital.