The Chief Advisor’s Office (CAO) has strongly criticized the comments made by Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sazzat Ali, who suggested that the public refrain from using the term “rape” and instead use phrases like “women repression” or “women oppression.”
In a statement issued on Sunday night, the CAO stated: “Rape is rape, whether committed against an 8-year-old or an 80-year-old. Such a heinous crime must be referred to by its correct name.”
“The interim government will not tolerate any form of violence against any citizen of Bangladesh.”
DMP chief Sazzat Ali made these remarks during the launch of the HELP app (Harassment Elimination Literacy Programme), which aims to improve women’s safety on public transport, at the Daily Star building in Dhaka’s Karwan Bazar on Saturday.
As the chief guest at the event, he said: “I dislike two words; I request you not to use them. I forgot one, but the other is ‘rape’. Please do not use this word. It sounds unpleasant to hear.
“The law we have is also called the ‘Women and Children Repression Prevention Act.’ The main heading of the law does not include such terms. So, we should avoid using words that sound unpleasant.”
The app was introduced following the tragic death of a child who was a victim of “rape” in Magura and in response to the increasing number of similar crimes across Bangladesh.
There have also been several incidents involving “mobs,” as well as shootings during muggings.
In light of these concerns, the interim government has reiterated its tough stance on such matters.
The DMP chief also urged the media to avoid broadcasting incidents that could generate a sense of insecurity among the public.
