TIB for judicial probe into cops’ role in Nusrat murder

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Thursday demanded judicial probe into the alleged negligence of duty by police in connection with the murder of Feni madrasa girl Nusrat Jahan Rafi.

The anti-graft watchdog in a statement also demanded strong enforcement of law to ensure punishment of those involved in the murder.

"Violence against women across the country considering the number and gravity of atrocities now reached at a level which is unimaginable. There is no alternative to ensuring strict enforcement of law against the responsible people and their associates to deal with this situation," said the statement.

TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said, "We hope investigation will be carried out properly and the responsible people will get exemplary punishment. But, we are worried about the allegations brought against the police officials concerned over their negligence of duty and connection in the incident."

Each allegation against the police officials concerned should be investigated properly and the police officials concerned as well as the overall police administration should be brought under accountability, he said.

Withdrawal of a police official from a police station can't be a punishment, said Iftekharuzzaman adding, "Country's people want to see proper implementation of the Prime Minister's assurance that none of those involved in the murder will be spared."

On April 6, Nusrat was set afire at an examination centre allegedly by people loyal to the principal of her madrasa after he was arrested and subsequently suspended as she had accused him of sexually harassing her in Sonagaziupazila of Feni district.

Nusrat Jahan lost her battle for life on April 10 at Dhaka Medical College Hospital in the capital, reports UNB.