Breaking the silence

Violence against women has become such a serious social issue that it does not only destroy individual lives but also challenge the entire social system. Every day, several pieces of news highlight the cries of women who have been raped and the pain of not receiving justice. Rape doesn't just harm a woman's body; it shatters her mental state as well. The saddest part is that our society still views rape survivors as "burdens," which causes many women to remain silent about their experiences. They stay quiet not only out of fear of the rapists but also due to the fear of societal judgment, disrespect, and humiliation.

One of the main reasons for the rise in rape is the lack of punishment for the offenders. Although there are strict laws against rape, they are not properly enforced. In Bangladesh, the rate of punishment for rape is extremely low, which makes the offenders even bolder.

However, rape cannot be stopped by law alone. Social awareness and moral education are also necessary. In our society, there are still many misconceptions about women and a deeply entrenched patriarchal mindset. People often criticise a woman's clothing, behaviour, or lifestyle, and sometimes even blame the victim for the rape. This mindset must change. Rape is never caused by a woman's clothing; it is the result of a criminal's distorted mentality. The courage of women is crucial in preventing rape. If women remain silent out of fear, the criminals will become even more reckless. To ensure women's safety and rights, all must raise their voices together. Now is the time to protest; now is the time for change.

Maliha Mehnaj

Student

Institute of Education and Research

Jagannath University, Dhaka

malihamehnaj394@gmail.com