Madrasa Abuse Cases Trigger Protests Across Bangladesh
Protests have erupted across Bangladesh after six madrasas were linked to child sexual abuse allegations within just 16 days. The incidents, which include rape, attempted rape and sexual harassment, have raised urgent questions about the safety of children in religious educational institutions.
The unrest has included demonstrations in several locations, attacks on accused teachers, and reports of vandalism and arson.
Between October 8 and October 23, cases emerged from Gazipur, Savar in Dhaka, Kushtia and Pabna. The victims range from children as young as seven years old, and include both boys and girls. Several children were allegedly threatened into silence.
Human rights groups have expressed grave concern. They say demonstrations alone cannot solve the problem and call for a robust monitoring system, along with sexual harassment prevention committees in every educational institution.
In the Gachha area of Gazipur, teacher Md Oliullah Islam, 23, is accused of raping an eight-year-old boarding student repeatedly on October 10, 11 and 12, and threatening him to stay quiet. The boy told his mother on October 13, after which the family filed a case. On October 22, police arrested Oliullah and Mohammad Mizan, 38, a member of the madrasa management committee. Both were sent to jail the next day. Md Abdul Quddus Sheikh, 45, another accused, is reportedly absconding.
In Tongi, Mosalem Ahmed, 30, a teacher at Karirul Quran International Madrasa, is accused of sexually abusing a seven-year-old first-grade girl on October 19. The family says the child was warned of physical violence if she told anyone. She stayed home from school for three days before disclosing the incident to her parents.
Meanwhile, in Savar, Abdul Bari, 50, the operator and head teacher of a madrasa, has been accused of raping a 13-year-old boarding student on October 21. The victim was allegedly threatened with death if she spoke out.
Bangladesh's Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad described the incidents as deeply tragic and shameful, promising that necessary steps would be taken to prevent them.
Dhaka-based Manusher Jonno Foundation has demanded impartial inquiries, legal action against those responsible and effective prevention committees in all educational institutions. The organisation warned that many more cases may go unreported because of fear, social stigma and pressure.
Shaheen Anam, the foundation's Executive Director, said, 'Children must never be afraid of the people responsible for their care and education. When a child reports abuse, we must listen, act immediately and protect them.' She urged parents to come forward and assured them that children would get all possible support.