A dialogue session on preventing violence against women and ensuring sensitive support services was held in Pabna on Tuesday. The session, titled “Receiving Sensitive Services for Women and Young Women Victims of Violence,” was organized by Pabna YWCA.
Young women, entrepreneurs, NGO workers, teachers and students took part in the event.
General Secretary Hena Goswami delivered the welcome speech. District Human Rights Monitoring Officer of the MSF Empower Her Project, Kamal Ahmed Siddiqui, attended as the chief guest and keynote speaker. Chameli Rita Costa moderated the session.
Speakers stressed the need for quick legal assistance, medical care and psychological support for women and children affected by violence. Discussions focused on domestic violence, child marriage, sexual harassment, rape, online abuse and social security.
Kamal Ahmed Siddiqui said the Prevention of Violence against Women and Children Act includes strict punishment for rape and violence against women. He also noted that the Prevention of Child Marriage Act makes child marriage and assisting it punishable offenses.
He advised victims of online harassment, fake image sharing and digital abuse to seek support from the Cyber Tribunal and law enforcement agencies.
Speakers also informed participants that women affected by violence can receive free legal support from the District Legal Aid Office, National Emergency Service 999, Women and Children Violence Prevention Cell, police gender desks and various human rights organizations.
Participants emphasized the importance of social awareness, speedy justice and safe, humane services for victims of violence.
