Why Did a Bangladesh Court Sentence One to Death in the Magura Rape Case While Acquitting Others?
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Synopsis
In a shocking verdict from Bangladesh, one man has been sentenced to death in the Magura child rape case, yet the acquittal of three others has left the victim's family devastated. This article delves into the details of the case, the reactions from the community, and the ongoing fight for justice.
Key Takeaways
- One accused sentenced to death.
- Three others acquitted.
- Victim's family dissatisfied with verdict.
- Protests for justice erupt nationwide.
- Calls for stricter laws against violence.
Dhaka, May 17 (NationPress) A court in Bangladesh delivered a death sentence on Saturday to one defendant in the Magura child rape and murder case, while the other three were acquitted. The victim's family has voiced strong discontent regarding this ruling.
This verdict comes months after the tragic loss of the eight-year-old girl, who succumbed to her injuries inflicted during the heinous assault, as reported by local media.
Judge Md Zahid Hasan, presiding over the Magura Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal, sentenced the primary accused, Hitu Sheikh, 50, to death.
The mother of the victim, who initiated the case, expressed her inability to accept the acquittal of the other three defendants involved in this tragic scenario.
“While I appreciate that Hitu Sheikh has been sentenced to death, the acquittal of the other three is unacceptable to us,” the Dhaka Tribune reported her statement.
“The plaintiff is not satisfied with this outcome. We will discuss whether to appeal this decision in a higher court,” said Monirul Islam Mukul, the public prosecutor.
Reports indicate that the horrific event took place in early March when the young victim was assaulted at her sister’s residence in Magura.
The child, who suffered severe injuries, was first treated in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, then transferred to CMH Hospital for further care.
Sadly, the eight-year-old victim passed away on March 13 at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Dhaka, after a week-long battle for her life.
This brutal incident ignited protests across the nation against the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, with calls for justice and stricter measures to combat violence against women and children.
Women across Bangladesh took to the streets, demanding justice for victims of rape, harsher penalties for perpetrators, and the resignation of Home Affairs Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury.
On Friday, thousands of women gathered in Dhaka, marching under the banner of “Women’s March for Solidarity,” urging the interim government to take action against the threats faced by women and minority communities in the country.
They also alleged that a misinformation campaign was being waged against the Women’s Affairs Reform Commission, according to local media.
The protesters emphasized that women continue to suffer daily harassment, exclusion from decision-making roles, and online abuse designed to undermine their political involvement.
Since the assumption of power by the Yunus-led interim government last year, multiple cases of sexual violence against women have been reported.
Point of View
I believe it is crucial to highlight the disappointment felt by the victim's family in the Magura case. While justice has been served in part, the acquittal of the other three accused raises significant concerns about the effectiveness of our legal system in addressing sexual violence. It is imperative that we continue to advocate for the rights and safety of women and children in our society.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the verdict in the Magura rape case?
One accused was sentenced to death, while three others were acquitted, leading to public outrage.
Who is the main accused in the case?
The primary accused is Hitu Sheikh, who has been sentenced to death.
What was the victim's age?
The victim was only eight years old.
What actions are being taken by the victim's family?
The family is considering appealing against the acquittal of the other accused.
What has been the public reaction to the verdict?
There has been widespread protest demanding justice and stricter measures to protect women and children.
