STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has strongly condemned the rape of a 12-year-old schoolgirl in Khagrachhari, calling for the swift arrest and trial of those involved.

In a statement issued yesterday, the rights organisation termed the assault a “horrifying reminder of the persistent violence faced by children and women in Bangladesh”.

“This tragic assault is not an isolated case. It reflects a culture of impunity where women and girls remain vulnerable, and perpetrators act without fear of arrest or punishment,” said MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam.

The organisation urged the government and law enforcers to take immediate and effective action, including enforcing strict legal penalties for violence against children and women, and expanding support for survivors through access to shelter, counselling, and livelihood programmes. The statement comes amid rising tensions in Khagrachhari.

The district administration imposed Section 144 yesterday following a dawn-to-dusk road blockade organised under the banner of “Jumma Chhatra-Janata” demanding justice for the victim.

The Class 8 student was allegedly raped on the evening of September 23 while returning from private tuition.

Her father filed a case with Khagrachhari Sadar Police Station the following day.

Meanwhile, police have arrested one suspect, who has been placed on a six-day remand by a court.