Legal Advisor Asif Nazrul has announced that a draft amendment to the rape law has been prepared. Following a meeting with leaders of the Anti-Rape Platform at the Secretariat today (Wednesday), he informed reporters about the government's latest steps to amend the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act.

Nazrul stated, “We held consultation meetings on Monday and Tuesday with relevant stakeholders. A draft of the amended law has been formulated, and today, we are circulating it among key stakeholders. Our aim is to make the law stricter as quickly as possible. The focus is not only on ensuring speedy trials but also on guaranteeing justice and proper adjudication.”

Under the proposed amendments, the investigation period for rape cases will be reduced from 30 days to 15 days, and the trial duration will be shortened from 180 days to 90 days. Additionally, judges will be empowered to proceed with cases based on medical certificates alone, without requiring DNA reports, if deemed necessary.

Asif Nazrul highlighted concerns over recent attacks on women, stating, “Since the post-victory period, women in our country have faced increasing threats. Some groups are distorting religious teachings to justify these attacks. We have adopted a zero-tolerance policy against such acts.”

Regarding his discussions with the Anti-Rape Platform, he added, “What they expressed today deeply resonates with me. I share their grief and frustration. They also conveyed their expectations from the government. One of their key demands is the swift and exemplary trial of the child rape case in Magura. We assured them that police have already collected DNA samples from the suspects. We will ensure that justice is served promptly and fairly.”

He further emphasized, “They want similar measures for all rape cases. We have assured them that we will do our best to implement these reforms.”

The activists also proposed the establishment of a special court dedicated solely to rape cases. Currently, rape trials are conducted in the Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal, which also handles other crimes, leading to case backlogs and delays in justice. Acknowledging the merit of this proposal, Nazrul stated, “I recognize the validity of their concern. However, this decision requires discussion at the Advisory Council level. I will raise the matter for further exploration, and if feasible, we will implement it as soon as possible.”

The Anti-Rape Platform leaders also demanded the creation of dedicated cells to address sexual harassment in workplaces and educational institutions. Nazrul responded, “The High Court has already issued a ruling on this matter. Based on that ruling, we are considering a more comprehensive law to protect women not only in educational institutions and workplaces but also in public spaces. We are committed to seriously reviewing this and strengthening the legal framework.”

With growing public demand for stricter laws and expedited trials, the government appears determined to reinforce the legal structure to combat sexual violence. Whether these proposed changes will bring about tangible improvements remains to be seen, but authorities have pledged to take swift and decisive action.