Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has condemned an attack, vandalism and threats against the family of a teenage girl in Subarnachar, Noakhali, following the filing of a case against a madrasa superintendent accused of attempted rape.
In a statement, MJF expressed concern that instead of receiving protection, the survivor and her family faced further violence and intimidation.
According to reports, a group attacked their home and pressured them to withdraw the case, raising concerns over abuse of power and lack of access to justice.
The organisation said such incidents discourage survivors of sexual violence and their families from seeking legal redress.
MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam said: “This incident shows how survivors and their families are often punished for seeking justice. The state must ensure their protection and take steps to arrest and prosecute the accused. Justice must be ensured through the legal process, not through informal compromise or social pressure.”
The organisation also expressed concern over delays in legal action and attempts to resolve the matter locally instead of through proper investigation, warning that such practices weaken the justice system and increase risks for survivors, particularly in educational institutions.
MJF urged the authorities to ensure the safety of the survivor and her family, arrest those accused in the case and those involved in the attack, and conduct a swift, fair and transparent investigation.
It also called for action against attempts to influence or obstruct the case and stressed the need to strengthen monitoring and accountability in educational institutions.
Emphasising that child protection must be a national priority, MJF said it stands in solidarity with the survivor and her family and remains committed to ensuring a safe and just environment for all children.