Bangladesh: Eradicate violence and harassment against women
Simi Banu, a young and talented artist of Narayangonj Fine Arts Institute, committed suicide at her residence in Khilgaon thana, Dhaka on December 23.
Under the banner of "We are for Simi", Ain o Salish Kendro (ASK) and several other human rights organisations such as, Nari Progoti Shangha, Nijera Kori, Bangladesh Mohila Parishad, PRIP Trust, BRAC, Kormojibi Nari, Shommilito Shamajik Andolon, BAWSE etc. organised a protest rally on 20 January 2002 near Simi's residence demanding arrest of the young men allegedly responsible for her suicide. On 23 of January 2002 in a public meeting at Dhaka University campus these organisations demanded immediate arrest of all accused and proper trial of those responsible for the death of Simi. They alleged that some police officials have allowed the terrorists to remain free. They also added that, Simi's death is a reflection of the deteriorating law and order situation in the country.
Simi Banu, a young and talented artist of Narayangonj
Fine Arts Institute, committed suicide at her residence in Khilgaon thana, Dhaka
on December 23. Simi left a hand written note in which she blamed some young men
of her area and Khilgaon thana sub-inspector Bashar for sexual harassment which
led to her committing suicide. She had been the target of insult and harassment
by these persons because, she used to return home at night from work and she led
an independent life. The sub-inspector insulted her and defended the young
men.
Simi felt her right to dignity and free movement was threatened and she received no protection from the law enforcing agency. She killed herself because she was undergoing intense pressure by local youths, policeman and neighbourhood elders. Her suicide was a protest against social restrictions on women in Bangladesh. Womens' and students' organisations have organised several protests, demonstrations demanding proper filing of cases and arrest of the young men accused of sexual harassment.
Simi felt her right to dignity and free movement was threatened and she received no protection from the law enforcing agency. She killed herself because she was undergoing intense pressure by local youths, policeman and neighbourhood elders. Her suicide was a protest against social restrictions on women in Bangladesh. Womens' and students' organisations have organised several protests, demonstrations demanding proper filing of cases and arrest of the young men accused of sexual harassment.
Source:
Ain o Salish Kendro (ASK)
Posted by:
ask@citechco.net
Created by:
Ain o Salish Kendro (ASK)
Submitted on Tue, 01/29/2002 - 00:00
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