The Home Ministry will soon launch a toll-free, 24-hour hotline to report rape and torture complaints, while a dedicated cell under the Law Ministry will monitor rape cases, announced Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul.

He shared these updates during a press conference on contemporary issues at the Secretariat on Sunday, March 9, alongside Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury.

Asif Nazrul said that the hotline, to be established by the Home Ministry and police within the next 24 hours, will address sexual assault and street harassment.

“A dedicated cell in the Home Ministry will oversee complaints, while a separate Law Ministry cell will ensure rape cases are processed without undue delays,” he said.

He also revealed that the Appellate Division has cancelled the bail of Saiful Islam, a life-sentenced convict in the Dinajpur child rape case.

Acknowledging systemic challenges, Asif Nazrul admitted, “We often fall short of expectations, and it’s painful.”

He emphasised the government’s resolve: “The ongoing violence, torture, and rape against women are unacceptable. This administration is committed to delivering justice and curbing all forms of sexual harassment.”

Reflecting on a recent meeting with the Chief Adviser focused on law and order, Asif Nazrul added, “We’re as disturbed as you are. We’ve decided to get tougher—mob justice will be firmly suppressed moving forward.”