On March 16, 2025, a meeting took place in the Anwara Begum-Munira Khan Auditorium with the panel lawyers of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (BMP) to enhance legal aid and anti-violence initiatives. Dr. Fauzia Moslem, President of BMP, led the meeting, and General Secretary Maleka Banu gave the opening remarks. Joint General Secretary Advocate Masuda Rehana Begum presented a keynote paper.
Senior lawyers from the Bangladesh Supreme Court, including Advocate S. M. A. Sabur and Barrister A. K. Rashedul Haque, took part in the discussions. Dr. Fauzia Moslem emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to combat violence against women, focusing on reducing case delays and increasing awareness.
Maleka Banu acknowledged progress but noted ongoing challenges in fighting violence against women, expressing hope for useful recommendations from the panel lawyers. Advocate S. M. A. Sabur highlighted the importance of efficient handling of legal processes, stressing the need for prompt forensic and DNA report management.
In the keynote paper, Masuda Rehana Begum discussed the initial hurdles faced by victims, such as the lack of awareness of legal options. She focused on advocating for skilled prosecution teams and mentioned a Supreme Court notification from May 9, 2024, allowing complainants to hire personal lawyers in tribunals.
Rekha Saha, Legal Aid Secretary, emphasized the need for legal support, safety, and justice for victims, calling for a multi-sectoral approach. She said, panel lawyers can play a crucial role in these efforts.
Suggestions included utilizing legal provisions to hire lawyers for victims, ensuring clear case documentation, maintaining political neutrality, and increasing tribunals to ensure justice for women and girls.
The meeting was attended by 40 participants, including central committee members, secretaries, panel lawyers, and officials of BMP.
