Women’s recourses against sexual violence in Bangladesh

BDLP regularly advises and acts in support of victims of crime.

Bangladesh has several laws that provide recourse to women who have experienced sexual violence. These include:

1. The Penal Code, 1860: The Penal Code criminalizes various forms of sexual violence, including rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. The Code provides for imprisonment and/or a fine for those found guilty.

2. The Nari-O-Shishu Nirjatan Daman Ain, 2000: The Nari-O-Shishu Nirjatan Daman Ain, also known as the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act, 2000, is a special law enacted to prevent violence against women and children. The Act criminalizes various forms of violence against women, including rape, acid throwing, and dowry-related violence. The Act provides for imprisonment and/or a fine for those found guilty.

3. The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2010: The Domestic Violence Act provides for the prevention and protection of women who are victims of domestic violence. The Act defines domestic violence broadly to include physical, sexual, emotional, verbal, and economic abuse. The Act provides for protection orders, residence orders, and monetary relief for victims.

4. The Digital Security Act, 2018: The Digital Security Act criminalizes the use of electronic communication to harass or intimidate women. The Act provides for imprisonment and/or a fine for those found guilty.

In addition to these laws, there are also several government agencies and non-governmental organizations in Bangladesh that provide support and assistance to women who have experienced sexual violence. These include the One-Stop Crisis Center, the National Helpline for Violence Against Women and Children etc.