Public concern over the overall law and order situation in the country is increasing day by day. Alongside incidents of theft, mugging, robbery, and murder, cases of violence against women and children have risen at an alarming rate. At the same time, the deaths of more than 500 people due to measles and other public health risks have created widespread fear among citizens. Incidents of rape, gang rape, child rape, murder following sexual assault, and various forms of violence are intensifying feelings of insecurity throughout society. According to human rights organizations, women’s rights activists, and crime analysts, the worsening situation is being driven by a culture of impunity, social degradation, the spread of drugs, and administrative weaknesses.
Experts believe that the failure to ensure swift and exemplary punishment after crimes are committed allows many offenders to escape justice easily. As a result, a culture of impunity has developed in society, encouraging further criminal activities. Many people believe that criminals are becoming increasingly reckless because they do not fear legal consequences.
In particular, members of civil society believe that ensuring strict punishment for heinous crimes such as rape could significantly reduce such incidents. They argue that the prompt arrest of offenders, impartial investigations, and speedy trials would help restore public confidence in the justice system. At the same time, fear of punishment among criminals could play an effective role in reducing future crimes.
A large section of the public believes that the Ministry of Home Affairs has failed to play an effective role in controlling the deteriorating law and order situation. Many allege that excessive focus on issues outside core security concerns has weakened crime control efforts. Consequently, criminals are becoming increasingly aggressive, while ordinary citizens are suffering from severe insecurity.
In addition, discussions in various circles suggest that the events surrounding the August 5 uprising and its aftermath have created fear and uncertainty within the police force. Many officers are reportedly anxious about their political affiliations and past roles. There are also allegations that certain hidden groups within law enforcement agencies remain active and are attempting to create instability and conspiracies by using the influence of the previous government.
According to analysts, overcoming this crisis requires comprehensive reform of the law enforcement agencies, greater accountability, improved professionalism, and the rebuilding of public trust. At the same time, discussions are growing about establishing a more effective, independent, and modern security structure. Many believe that either the formation of a new specialized force or the restructuring of existing agencies is necessary to strengthen national security. However, experts emphasize that any such initiative must operate within the framework of the constitution, human rights, and democratic accountability.
Recent reports by human rights organizations have highlighted an alarming rise in violence against women and children. According to data from Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, 181 women and children were subjected to violence in November of last year. Although the number slightly decreased in December, incidents rose again to 183 cases each in January and February 2026. In March, the number increased to 190, and in April it reached a peak of 220 cases. This indicates a significant rise in violence within just a few months.
Crime statistics from Bangladesh Police also reveal similarly concerning trends. In February, there were 1,181 reported cases of violence against women and children. Within just two months, the number rose to 2,011 in April, representing an increase of nearly 70 percent. According to police data, the Dhaka Range was identified as the most vulnerable region, with 375 cases of violence against women and children recorded in April alone. Law and order experts say that population pressure, unplanned urbanization, and the active presence of criminal networks in and around the capital have made the situation even more complex.
The increase in rape cases is particularly alarming. According to Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, the monthly average number of rape cases between November last year and January this year ranged from 30 to 45. However, the number increased to 57 in March and 58 in April. In April alone, 17 women became victims of gang rape. During the same period, attempted rape cases also increased several times. Women’s rights activists say that women and children are facing the greatest risks due to the weakening of social security.
According to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), 199 incidents of violence against children were recorded during the first four months of this year. Among them, 94 were rape cases. During the same period, 115 children were victims of murder, while 11 children were killed after being raped. These incidents have created deep concern among the public. Experts believe that such brutality against children reflects the moral degradation of society.
Social analysts argue that the culture of impunity is one of the major reasons behind the rise in crime. Criminals often escape punishment due to delays in trials and the failure to ensure effective justice. As a result, similar crimes continue to occur repeatedly. Seema Dutta, President of Narimukti Kendra, stated, “The absence of proper justice is making criminals more reckless. Impunity is encouraging criminal tendencies in society.” She also noted that drug abuse, unemployment, and social degradation have further complicated the situation.
Fawzia Moslem, President of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, believes that violence and criminal tendencies are steadily increasing in society. In her words, “The abuse of power, the decline of cultural practices, and weaknesses in the education system are making society increasingly unstable.” She stressed that unless exemplary punishment is ensured, crimes such as violence against women and children will continue to rise. She also emphasized the importance of raising social awareness and strengthening moral education.
Crime analysts say that the nature of criminal activities has also changed in recent years. The misuse of social media, the expansion of drug trafficking networks, the rise of juvenile gangs, and political influence have made crime control increasingly difficult. In many cases, victims are afraid to file complaints, or they are deprived of justice due to lengthy legal procedures. As a result, criminals become even more emboldened.
The public is demanding that law enforcement agencies become more active and accountable. At the same time, greater emphasis should be placed on increasing the effectiveness of speedy trial tribunals, using modern technology in criminal investigations, and ensuring the safety of victims. Relevant stakeholders also believe that coordinated initiatives involving families, educational institutions, social organizations, and state institutions are essential to prevent crimes such as violence against women and children.
Experts believe that this crisis cannot be solved solely through law enforcement measures. Rebuilding social values, creating employment opportunities for young people, controlling drug abuse, and expanding cultural activities can also help reduce crime tendencies. At the same time, they stress that without political goodwill and administrative efficiency, it will be impossible to improve the law and order situation.
The growing incidents of violence against women and children are not only a sign of deteriorating law and order but also a reflection of a deeper social crisis. Concerned groups fear that the situation may worsen further if immediate and effective measures are not taken. The general public expects the government and administration to take prompt and effective initiatives to ensure citizens’ safety and take strict action against criminals.