Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has expressed outrage and demanded urgent action following the reported rape of a 10-year-old madrasa student in Kushtia, the organization said on March 18.
In January and February 2026, Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) documented 71 incidents of violence against children, including the rape of 38 girls and two boys, and 14 reported attempts to rape girls. In 2025, ASK recorded 1,024 incidents of violence against children.
“Most of these incidents have taken place in the private domain, public places and in educational institutions such as madrasas,” the MJF press statement said on Wednesday.
MJF urged authorities to treat the case with utmost urgency and bring all educational institutions under the High Court ruling that requires formation of sexual harassment committees until a law on sexual harassment is passed in Parliament.
Shaheen Anam, executive director of MJF, said sexual violence against children in madrasas is rarely reported unless injuries are severe or fatal because of a culture of fear and secrecy. She added that offenders often hide behind institutions that protect them, preventing children from speaking out.
The child survivor from Bheramara Upazila is now fighting for her life. Three people, including the head teacher of the madrasa where the child was a residential student, have reportedly been arrested.
MJF stressed that arresting offenders alone will not prevent further atrocities. The organization called for strict implementation of laws, impartial investigations, timely action, and greater awareness among parents and guardians about children’s vulnerability at home, in schools, madrasas, and public spaces.
The protection and safety of children are the responsibility of both the state and society. Civil society, women’s rights, and human rights organizations stand ready to cooperate with the government to ensure children can grow up in safety and freedom.
