The government will establish rapid response cells in 64 districts to combat violence against women

The Ministry of Women and Children’s Affairs will set up rapid response cells in all 64 districts of Bangladesh to combat violence against women and children, adviser Sharmeen Murshid said today.

Speaking as the chief guest at an event at Bangladesh Shishu Academy on the occasion of National Girls’ Day, she said the initiative aims to provide a safer environment for girls and women across the country.

The event was jointly organized by the ministry and the National Forum for Girls.

“These rapid response cells will include government officials, members of the public and children and aim to ensure a quick and coordinated response to any form of harassment or violence, while ensuring accountability,” Murshid said.

She stressed the government’s commitment to doing everything possible to prevent child abuse.

Recalling the recent youth-led movement in July and August, Murshid praised the courage shown by children for justice, likening it to the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War.

She called for a safer future for women and girls across Bangladesh, saying: “We must build Bangladesh’s future based on the dreams of our girls. In this future, there will be playgrounds and schools near their homes, and they will sing, dance and move freely.”

The event began at 10:45 am with the release of doves and balloons and a colorful rally led by Murshid at the premises of Bangladesh Shishu Academy.

The event was chaired by Nazma Mobarek, Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Children, who emphasized the importance of educating and protecting girls.

Quoting the famous words of Napoleon Bonaparte: “Give me an educated mother and I will give you an educated nation,” Mobarek emphasized the need to provide girls with adequate education, nutrition and protection to secure their future.

Badiul Alam Majumdar, chairperson of the National Forum for Girls, added that the August 5 uprising had opened up new opportunities for the country, emphasizing the need to create a safer Bangladesh for girls.

He urged everyone to contribute, saying that while girls should focus on acquiring knowledge and developing skills, it is the responsibility of government bodies, non-governmental organizations and parents to provide an environment that supports their full potential.

Keya Khan, Director General of the Department of Women’s Affairs, stressed the need for both society and the state to fully support girls in realizing their dreams.

She commended the efforts made to prevent child marriage through youth clubs, but noted that more work was needed to achieve full success.

Khan called for a change in social attitudes to ensure respect and dignity for women and girls.

Bangladesh Shishu Academy CEO Tania Khan stressed the importance of raising awareness about discrimination against girls and ensuring their safety and development opportunities.

Save the Children in Bangladesh’s acting country director Reefat Bin Sattar stressed that child marriage is a major obstacle to girls’ development, often forcing them into motherhood at a young age.

As part of the celebrations, guests unveiled a poster and a book dedicated to the National Day of the Girl.

The discussions were followed by a cultural program including performances by children.

Two documentaries were also screened, one focused on girls’ prospects for the future of Bangladesh and the other paid tribute to the late Nasima Akter Jolly, former secretary of the National Forum for Girls, highlighting her contributions and legacy.