Protests are sweeping across the country in response to the rape of an 8-year-old girl in Magura and the increasing violence against women nationwide. People from all walks of life, including students, have taken to the streets demanding justice for the perpetrators. Many are also speaking out on social media. The entertainment industry has joined in the protests, with members of the Bangladesh Film Artists Association holding a demonstration to demand justice for all rape victims.
At around 4:00 PM, members of the Film Artists Association began a rally from their office and marched towards the main gate of the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC), chanting slogans against rapists. They gathered in front of the BFDC’s main gate, where they held a protest demanding justice for all rape cases. During the event, the association’s vice president D.A. Taieb, actresses Sujata and Rozina, and others delivered speeches.
The protesters chanted slogans like “Tumi Ke Ami Ke, Afsia Afsia,” “Justice, Justice, We Want Justice,” and “No More Tears for My Sister.” Afterward, they held a demonstration in front of the BFDC.
In his written statement, Misha Sawdagar, president of the Film Artists Association, said, “We are all aware of what has happened. We are all vocal about this issue. We demand the formation of special tribunals to expedite the trials of child rape cases, as well as all rape and violence against women cases. The maximum punishment must be ensured for the criminals so that others think ten times before committing such acts. The process of evidence collection and investigations must be strengthened so that criminals cannot escape justice. Strict punishment alone is not enough; we also believe in increasing family awareness and taking preventive measures.”
Misha Sawdagar further added, “Educational institutions and families must work together to create a safe environment for children to grow up. We urge the government, law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary to ensure swift and exemplary punishment for child rapists. To build a civilized, justice-based society, we must take effective steps now. Today’s children are the foundation of tomorrow. Ensuring the safety of every child should be our commitment.”
Other participants in the protest included actresses Polly, Rumana Islam Mukti, Ratna, actors Joy Chowdhury, Shipon Mitra, and many others.
In related news, tomorrow (11 March), the Directors Guild of Bangladesh will hold a human chain at the National Press Club at 12:00 PM to protest violence, harassment, and rape against women and children. Guild president, actor, and director Shahiduzzaman Selim, along with Faridul Hasan, Chayonika Chowdhury, Sagar Zahan, Sokal Ahmed, Firoz Khan, and others, will also attend the demonstration. The Guild has invited all media personnel to participate in this protest.