Dhaka, Nov 03 (V7N) — A total of 231 women and girls were reported victims of various forms of violence across Bangladesh in October, according to a statement issued on Sunday by Maleka Banu, General Secretary of the Women’s Council. The organization’s Central Legal Aid Subcommittee compiled the report based on news published in 15 national newspapers.

The report shows that in October, 62 women and girls were subjected to sexual assault. Among them, 44 were victims of individual rape, 13 (including 10 girls) were victims of gang rape, and five (including two girls) were raped and subsequently murdered. Additionally, 13 women and girls faced attempted rape.

A total of 53 women and girls were murdered during the month, including 46 women and seven girls, while three others survived attempted murders. There were 26 mysterious deaths reported, comprising 17 women and nine girls.

Seven women and girls committed suicide, including one who had been coerced into taking her life. Twelve women and girls were victims of sexual harassment, with six girls and six women affected. Among these, 11 suffered sexual abuse and one faced sexual exploitation.

The report also highlighted cases of extreme violence: four women suffered burn injuries, resulting in the death of one victim. One female domestic worker was killed after being subjected to physical abuse. Seven girls were abducted, and 10 individuals, including six girls, fell victim to human trafficking.

In addition, 19 women, including five girls, were physically assaulted. Attempts at child marriage were reported in two cases, and seven incidents were related to dowry demands. Among the dowry-related cases, five women were murdered and two were physically abused.

The report underscores the persistent threat of violence against women and girls in Bangladesh, highlighting the urgent need for effective legal protection, community awareness, and stronger mechanisms to prevent such crimes.

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