Interim Government to Establish Two DNA Labs in Chattogram and Rajshahi
The interim government has announced plans to swiftly establish two DNA laboratories in Chattogram and Rajshahi to expedite the judicial process in rape and violence against women cases. The announcement was made by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser on Forest and Environment Affairs, during a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Monday (March 17), organized by the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser.
Addressing the media, Rizwana Hasan stated, "One of the major reasons for delays in rape trials is the lack of sufficient DNA laboratories in the country. Therefore, the Advisory Council has decided to set up two new DNA labs. These will be established in Chattogram and Rajshahi as soon as possible to accelerate the prosecution of rape and violence against women cases."
She further mentioned that a special meeting of the Advisory Council was held on Monday at the Chief Adviser's office in Tejgaon, presided over by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, where the council discussed amendments to the existing Women and Children Repression Prevention Act. Following extensive deliberations, the council approved, in principle, the establishment of the new DNA labs and amendments to the law.
Highlighting additional measures, she said, "Another major cause of delays in rape trials is the lack of sufficient judicial officers. A decision has been made to initiate a rapid recruitment process through a Special Judicial Commission to appoint judges, ensuring swift trials for rape and other cases. Moreover, since commodity prices remain stable, the Chief Adviser has instructed concerned advisers to continue monitoring the market, imports, and supply chains to maintain this stability."
At the same press briefing, Dr. Asif Nazrul, Adviser on Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, emphasized that the prolonged wait for DNA reports often resulted in cases remaining pending for years. He explained, "We have now introduced provisions in the law that allow courts to proceed with trials based on medical certificates and circumstantial evidence, even in the absence of DNA reports. Additionally, we are implementing measures to ensure greater protection and compensation for victims. If a victim sustains injuries during rape or attempted rape, we are bringing such offenses under stricter legal penalties."
