No more abuse

Sexual violence against children at educational institutions has become a common phenomenon in Bangladesh in recent times. Some teachers, who are considered protectors of students, are being found guilty of sexual harassment at their institutions. Then, what kind of moral and ethical lessons will the institutions offer to the next generation? Despite enactment of a number of laws to protect women and children from sexual harassment and violence, bad elements allied with powerful quarters, continue their evil acts vitiating the atmosphere.

Many girls and women choose not to disclose experience of harassment to avoid being stigmatised. What made Nusrat Jahan different is that she didn't just speak out, she also went to the police with the help of her family the day she had faced abuse. The judgement on the Nusrat murder case by the Feni court would contribute to reducing harassment. We expect the verdict would be implemented properly and justice would be done in other such cases soon.

Nishat Farzana

East West University, Dhaka