Dhaka, April 21 (NationPress) A prominent human rights organization has vehemently denounced the violence, vandalism, and threats aimed at the family of a young girl in Noakhali district, Bangladesh, following their decision to file a complaint against a madrasa head, who is accused of attempting to sexually assault her, according to local news sources.

In a statement released on Monday, the Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) voiced grave concerns about the violence and intimidation faced by the survivor and her family instead of receiving necessary protection.

Reports indicate that a group of individuals assaulted their residence and pressured them to retract the complaint, which MJF described as a serious abuse of authority and a failure to achieve justice.

The organization cautioned that such occurrences dissuade families of survivors of sexual violence from pursuing justice through legal avenues.

"This incident highlights the punitive measures often faced by survivors and their families when they seek justice. It is the state's duty to safeguard these individuals and ensure that the accused are arrested and prosecuted. Justice should be pursued through the legal framework, not through informal agreements or societal pressure," stated Shaheen Anam, executive director of MJF, as quoted by The Daily Star.

According to reports, the victim's father lodged a complaint last week at the Charjabbar Police Station against madrasa superintendent Abul Khayer, accusing him of attempting to rape his 14-year-old daughter, who is a resident student at a local madrasa in Subarnachar upazila of Noakhali.

Following the filing of the complaint, approximately 100 individuals allegedly stormed the victim's home, attacked family members, and engaged in vandalism and looting. A video capturing the attack circulated on social media on Saturday afternoon, triggering widespread public outrage.

MJF urged the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of the Subarnachar survivor and her family, arrest the accused, as well as those responsible for the attack, and conduct a prompt, fair, and transparent investigation.

They also called for action against any attempts to settle the matter informally or obstruct the case, while emphasizing the need for enhanced monitoring and accountability within educational institutions.

The organization further expressed concerns over delays in legal processes and the inclination towards local settlements instead of proper investigations.

"Such practices undermine the justice system and put survivors at greater risk, particularly in educational settings like madrasas. It is imperative that protecting children becomes a national priority," MJF added.

In solidarity with the survivor and her family, the organization reiterated its commitment to fostering a safe and just environment for all children.