Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has strongly criticized Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali for requesting the media not to use the word “rape.” According to TIB’s Executive Director, Iftekharuzzaman, this stance indirectly supports perpetrators of sexual violence and is entirely unacceptable. He demanded that the commissioner retract his statement.
Speaking at a human chain protest titled “Stop Violence Against Women and Children, Now!” in front of the National Parliament on Sunday (March 16), Iftekharuzzaman expressed outrage over the commissioner’s remarks.
TIB’s Reaction
Iftekharuzzaman stated, “The police are supposed to ensure women’s safety, yet a senior officer discourages using the term ‘rape’ in media reports. This is shocking and deserves condemnation. His stance appears to protect rapists rather than victims.”
He also criticized the overall approach of state officials toward gender issues, saying, “Our leadership does not demonstrate a pro-women attitude in their words or actions. The presence of such police officials at senior levels reflects a culture that has not changed despite movements for a discrimination-free Bangladesh.”
Media Should Report More on Rape Cases
TIB called for increased media coverage of rape cases instead of reducing their visibility. Iftekharuzzaman urged journalists to reject the commissioner’s appeal and continue reporting on sexual violence forcefully.
Context of the Controversy
On Saturday (March 15), during an event, DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali requested journalists to avoid using the word “rape” because it “sounds unpleasant.” He suggested using terms like “violence against women” instead.
TIB’s Executive Director dismissed this reasoning, emphasizing that softening language could lead to suppressing discussions about sexual violence. He also urged the government to include women’s rights activists in drafting laws for rape prevention to ensure meaningful reforms.
The protest was led by TIB’s Assistant Coordinator for Outreach and Communication, Saimum Mausumi, alongside various human rights activists, including Shamsul Huda, Executive Director of the Association for Land Reform in Bangladesh.