The Inter-Services Public Relations Directorate (ISPR) has provided an update on the condition of the Magura rape survivor, a minor girl who was brutally assaulted last week. The child, currently on life support at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Dhaka, remains in critical condition.

According to the ISPR, the girl was transferred to CMH from Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) on Saturday (March 8) while on life support. At the time of her transfer, she was completely unconscious, with a blood pressure of 120/70 mmHg (with cardiac support), a heart rate of 118 beats per minute, and an oxygen saturation level of 96%. Medical examinations revealed deep wounds on her neck and injuries to other sensitive parts of her body.

A high-level medical board has been formed to oversee her treatment. The board includes the CMH Commandant, the Surgeon General, and senior specialists from pediatrics, gynecology, plastic surgery, pediatric surgery, anesthesiology, and pediatric neurology. The board has conducted several tests, including CT scans of the abdomen, chest, and brain, an abdominal ultrasound, and a chest X-ray. The tests identified pneumothorax (right side), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and diffuse cerebral edema. Treatment is being administered following standard ICU protocols.

The incident occurred on Thursday (March 6) when the girl was visiting her sister’s in-laws in Nanduali, Magura. She was allegedly raped by her sister’s father-in-law, Hitu Sheikh (50). After the assault, she was found unconscious and taken to Magura 250-bed Hospital. She was later transferred to Faridpur Medical College Hospital and then to DMCH. On Friday (March 7), her condition deteriorated, and she was placed on life support before being moved to CMH.

Medical reports indicate severe injuries to her genital area, a deep wound on her neck, and evidence of strangulation with a cloth-like object. Pressure on her chest caused air to enter parts of her lungs where it should not be, leading to pneumothorax. A tube was inserted on Sunday (March 9) to remove the excess air. The lack of oxygen has caused brain damage, resulting in seizures.

Meanwhile, four suspects, including the accused Hitu Sheikh and his family members, have been remanded. On Sunday (March 9), the Chief Judicial Magistrate of Magura granted a seven-day remand for Hitu Sheikh and five-day remands for the other three suspects.

In a related development, the High Court has ordered the removal of the victim’s photos, videos, and identifying information from print media, online news portals, and social media platforms. The court also directed the police, Cyber Crime Unit, and BTRC to ensure compliance. Additionally, legal action has been ordered against those who published the victim’s details, under Section 14 of the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act.

The case has sparked nationwide outrage, with calls for stricter laws and faster justice for sexual violence survivors. The victim’s condition continues to be closely monitored as the medical team works to stabilize her.