The Moulvibazar district branch of Human Rights Defenders Society (HRDS) organized a human chain program in protest against the rape and brutal murder of 8-year-old child Ramisa Akter in Pallabi, Dhaka, and demanded exemplary punishment for those involved in the incident.

The human chain was held on Saturday (May 23) at 4:00 PM at Moulvibazar Press Club Point, where organizational leaders, human rights activists, representatives of social organizations, journalists, and people from various professions participated.

The program was moderated by Oli Ahmed Mahin, General Secretary of the organization. Speakers included Jaber Ahmed, President of Human Rights Defenders Society (HRDS) Moulvibazar District Branch; Amirun Nesa Alo, Women and Children Affairs Secretary; Nurul Islam Sheful, Secretary of Moulvibazar Press Club; Mahbubur Rahman Rahel, Moulvibazar District Correspondent of Asian TV; Hossain Ahmed, President of Campaign for Media Freedom; and Ripon Mia, Moulvibazar District Correspondent of Bangladesh Samachar.

Others present included Kamran Ahmed, Joint General Secretary of Human Rights Defenders Society; Kamran Alam, Publicity Secretary; and Executive Member Rezaul Hasan Rahi, among others.

The speakers stated that incidents of violence against women and children are increasing at an alarming rate across the country. They emphasized the need to end the culture of impunity and ensure the strict enforcement of laws. They noted that Ramisa’s case is not isolated, as similar incidents occur frequently, often two or three cases at a time, while visible administrative action appears insufficient.

The speakers further stated that such crimes are increasing due to the rise of juvenile gangs, drug abuse, and various social crimes. They called upon the administration to take stronger action against drugs, juvenile gangs, and other harmful activities spreading throughout society.

They also added that in the past, during the government of Khaleda Zia, strict governmental measures helped eliminate heinous crimes such as acid attacks.

The speakers appealed to the administration that if strict legal action is taken against the accused in Ramisa’s case, no other child may have to lose their life in such a tragic manner again.