President calls for zero tolerance for violence against women, girls

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday called for strict enforcement of a zero-tolerance policy against violence, rape and sexual harassment of women and girl children, stressing prompt investigations, effective trials and strict application of the law.
He made the remarks while addressing a discussion as the chief guest at Bangladesh Shishu Academy, marking International Day of the Girl Child 2026. 
The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs and the National Girl Child Advocacy Forum (NGCAF) jointly organised the programme, chaired by Women and Children Affairs Minister AZM Zahid Hossain.
The President stressed ensuring girls’ safety on their way to school, in educational institutions and in the online world, and  also called for equal dignity for boys and girls, prioritising girls’ education and changing social attitudes towards daughters.
Highlighting  the women’s achievements in education, sports, technology, healthcare and public administration, the President cited mountaineer Nishat Majumder’s ascent of Mount Everest and the national women’s football team’s international success as sources of pride for the country. 
 “A girl’s education is not an act of charity but a fundamental right. Ensuring her safety is a sacred responsibility of the family, society and the state,” he added.
Referring to this year’s International Day of the Girl Child theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights”, the President said child marriage deprived girls of their childhood, disrupted education and increased health risks, economic dependence and vulnerability to violence, stressing the need for adolescent-friendly services, mental healthcare at every upazila and greater awareness of helplines.
Addressing girls, he urged them to continue their education, develop practical skills, learn self-defence and report abuse to trusted guardians, teachers or authorities.
The President also recalled former prime minister Khaleda Zia’s contributions to girls’ education, including scholarships and tuition-free education.
State Minister Farzana Sharmin, BNP National Standing Committee member and lawmaker Begum Selima Rahman and representatives of the government and NGCAF also spoke at the programme, while the President’s spouse, Rahat Ara Begum, was present.