Police arrested the 17-year-old victim’s boyfriend and three others in connection with the incident. The law enforcers recovered her body from a city hospital.

Also read: Much-talked-about changes to rape law passed in parliament

Police said the victim went to a friend’s house in Kalabagan for group study. Next, the student’s male friends “raped” her and took her to the hospital. Doctors informed the law enforcers after the victim had died there.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner (Ramna Division) Sajjadur Rahman said, “We are still not sure about the cause of her death and can figure it out after receiving the autopsy report. However, preparations for filing a case is in progress.” 

Also read: Child rape increased 76.01pc in Bangladesh last year: BSAF

Rape still pervasive despite stronger law

The government in last November amended the law to ensure the death penalty for rape.

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The nationwide protest sparked by gang rape incidents in Sylhet MC College hostel and Noakhali prompted the government to make the swift change.

The cabinet approved the amendment on October 12 last year. A day later, the president promulgated an ordinance in this regard.

Also read: Bangladesh introduces death penalty for rape

After that 160 incidents of rape took place until December 31, Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK) said.

Last year, 1,627 women became a victim of rape. Fifty-three of them were killed after rape and 14 of the victims took their own lives, according to ASK.

Also read: 10-year-old rape victim finally gets justice

But the actual number is believed to be higher as many victims choose not to report assaults fearing their safety.