The Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) staged a protest march on Friday demanding exemplary punishment for those involved in recent rape, murder and violence incidents and ensuring safety for women and children.

The protest march began after Jumma prayers from the university’s Central Mosque and marched through several campus roads before ending in a rally at the feet of the Raju Memorial Sculpture at TSC.

They expressed deep concern over the prevailing law and order situation and warned of a nationwide mass movement if the authorities failed to show visible progress in the trials of the accused.

DUCSU Vice-President Abu Shadik Kayem said people had expected the rule of law and security from the newly elected government following the recent elections.

He claimed that a series of incidents of rape, murder, extortion and terrorism in recent days had created panic among the public.

He alleged that in some cases criminals were attempting to evade justice under the protection of influential political leaders.

Referring to the rape and murder of a teenager in Narsingdi, he accused local political leaders of shielding the accused.

“If criminals are hidden instead of being brought to justice, public anger will explode,” he said, demanding swift arrests and exemplary punishment.

Kayem also called on the administration to conduct impartial investigations and ensure transparent legal proceedings.

DUCSU General Secretary SM Farhad said the absence of visible action in recent rape and violence cases had triggered widespread public anger.

He urged the media to publish investigative reports and criticised what he described as selective coverage.

Referring to Tarique Rahman, Farhad said, “Tarique is walking and sitting on ordinary chairs, but there is no news about those involved in rape. We did not want to see such a Bangladesh, and the people did not want such a media.”

He warned that any attempt to spread misleading propaganda to cover up crimes would deepen the crisis.

DUCSU Assistant General Secretary Mohiuddin Khan said ensuring women’s safety was a fundamental responsibility of the state and demanded prompt investigations and speedy trials in every case.

Transport Secretary Asif Abdullah, Health and Environment Secretary Abdullah Al Minhaj, Common Room, Reading Room and Cafeteria Secretary Umme Salma, and Executive Member Raihan Uddin also addressed the rally.

The speakers said a series of rape and violence incidents across the country had placed women and children under severe threat.

They called on the Ministry of Home Affairs and other concerned authorities to take swift and effective action.

They also urged political parties to take a clear position regarding allegations against their leaders and activists.