Students of Khulna University (KU) staged a protest rally on Friday, condemning recent incidents of rape, brutal killings and the prevailing culture of impunity in the country. The protest was held in front of the university’s ‘Odommo Bangla’ sculpture around 5:30pm, where students demanded speedy trial and exemplary punishment for those involved in rape and murder.

During the demonstration, participants chanted various protest slogans and expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of sexual violence and killings across the country. They alleged that the recurring failure to ensure justice is encouraging perpetrators and contributing to the growing trend of such crimes.

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The students also criticized what they described as the inadequate role of the state and administration in ensuring the safety and security of women.

Speaking at the rally, Zahid, a fourth-year student of the university, said, “When those elected by the people to govern the state respond to such brutal incidents with remarks that appear insensitive or mocking, it becomes a matter of shame for the entire nation.”

He added that ensuring public safety is the primary responsibility of the home minister, not making controversial statements.

Joining the protest in solidarity, a female student said, “We now feel unsafe even moving alone during the daytime. We are afraid of riding autorickshaws alone and even feel uncomfortable walking alone inside university campuses.”

She called for ensuring safe movement and security for all citizens regardless of gender.

Another fourth-year student, Tanvir, said, “We are living in a reality where governments change over time, but the condition of ordinary people remains unchanged. The existing state structure has repeatedly failed to ensure citizens’ safety.”

He stressed the need for immediate and exemplary punishment for offenders to curb rape and violence against women.

Another student, Rad, said people no longer want to witness delays in the name of justice. He demanded quick disposal of rape cases and maximum punishment for the perpetrators. He also proposed formation of a separate commission under the law and home ministries to expedite investigations and trials related to rape cases.

The protesters urged the authorities concerned to take effective measures to prevent recurrence of such incidents and ensure women’s safety across the country.