Chittagong University (CU) unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, the student wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), organized a human chain protest on Monday (March 10) demanding stricter punishment for rape and violence against women. The demonstration took place at the university’s Shaheed Minar premises, where students called for the reform of existing rape laws and expedited justice for victims.

Chhatra Dal leaders emphasized the need to align Bangladesh’s rape laws with international standards, advocating for the death penalty as the maximum punishment for rapists. They also demanded that rape be classified as a non-bailable offense and urged the government to ensure swift resolution of pending rape cases across the country.

The protest was chaired by Chhatra Dal CU unit President Alauddin Mohsin, with Organizational Secretary Sazzad Hossain Hridoy delivering the keynote speech. The event was moderated by Senior Joint Secretary Md. Yasin.

In his speech, Sazzad Hossain Hridoy stated, “The current laws on rape must be reformed. The maximum punishment for rape should be the death penalty, and it should be carried out publicly. Rape must be declared a non-bailable offense, and all ongoing rape cases in the country’s courts must be resolved quickly. If the government fails to address this issue, the people, like during the July uprising, will take justice into their own hands.”

Alauddin Mohsin, President of Chhatra Dal CU unit, expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of rape and harassment of women, even after the July uprising. He said, “The continuous occurrence of rape across the country, including in universities, is deeply troubling. Women are being harassed, and no effective measures are being taken to address this. We demand immediate action to ensure the safety and security of women.”

The protest highlighted the growing frustration among students and citizens over the lack of accountability and justice for rape victims. The leaders warned that if the government fails to take decisive action, the public may resort to mass movements to demand justice.

The human chain protest was attended by numerous students and activists who echoed the demands for stricter laws and faster judicial processes to combat rape and violence against women. The event concluded with a call to the government to prioritize women’s safety and ensure that perpetrators of such crimes face severe consequences.

Chhatra Dal’s demonstration at Chittagong University reflects a broader national demand for legal reforms and stronger measures to address gender-based violence, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change to protect women’s rights and ensure justice for victims.