To ensure rapid and integrated support for victims of gender-based violence (GBV) the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) organized a networking meeting in Pabna to establish an effective district-level referral system.
Held today at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference room, the event brought together government and non-government organizations to streamline access to justice and essential services.
Speaking as the chief guest, Pabna Deputy Commissioner Md. Aminul Islam stressed that enforcing the law alone is insufficient. “A coordinated referral system must be developed among all institutions,” he said. He urged stakeholders to work sincerely to ensure victims receive seamless healthcare, legal aid, psychological support, and rehabilitation without facing harassment.
District Legal Aid Officer and Senior Civil Judge Md. Azharul Islam noted that linking this referral framework with the national legal aid program would significantly ease victims' access to justice. “When institutions fulfill their roles and maintain coordination, the quality of services and access to justice improve dramatically,” he added.
The meeting, presented by BLAST Pabna Unit Staff Lawyer Advocate Sultana Parveen, was attended by key local figures, including Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Md. Moniruzzaman and BLAST Pabna Unit President Advocate Khandaker Maksudur Rahman Masud. Representatives from the police, BRAC, MSF, the District Women's Affairs Department, and local NGOs also participated.
Stakeholders emphasized that an effective referral system is more than just transferring cases; it is a holistic approach to securing a victim's safety, dignity, and rehabilitation. Participants praised BLAST for the timely initiative and called for regular coordination meetings to sustain a victim-friendly support network.
