DINAJPUR, MAY 23 (V7N) - Women and Children Affairs Minister AZM Zahid Hossain declared that the government has implemented a strict zero-tolerance policy against all forms of gender-based violence and child abuse across Bangladesh. Speaking at a community views-exchange meeting at the Hakimpur Hili Parishad hallroom in Dinajpur on Friday, the minister—who also holds the portfolio for the Ministry of Social Welfare—emphasized that national legislation guarantees the highest judicial penalties, including the death sentence, for perpetrators of child rape and assault.
During the session, which included local administrative officials, political activists, and professional community leaders, the minister highlighted the government's swift response to the recently discussed Ramisa rape and murder case. He noted that law enforcement apprehended the prime suspect within 24 hours of the crime, adding that investigations are being fast-tracked to ensure a swift charge sheet submission to the judiciary for exemplary punishment.
The minister detailed administrative and socioeconomic directives aimed at regional development and public welfare:
Equal Application of Law: Hossain asserted that the political identity of any criminal will not be considered. Whether an offender belongs to the ruling party or the opposition, they will face the same stringent legal consequences.
Law and Order Priorities: The administration has received explicit instructions to crack down heavily on regional terrorism, narcotics trafficking, and the rise of destructive "mob culture."
The Family Card Program: Fulfilling a key campaign pledge, the government intends to expand its signature safety-net initiative to cover nearly 2 crore families by 2029, effectively extending various forms of state assistance to an estimated 10 crore citizens.
Following the discussion, Minister Hossain distributed financial development grants to several regional religious and social institutions, handing out a total of Tk 17 lakh in grant cheques to community representatives before concluding his visit.
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