Enact new law to curb domestic violence

The discussion titled 'Combating domestic violence: Listening to experiences' was organised by Bangladesh National Women Lawyers Association (BNWLA) at LGED conference room in the city.

Taking part in the discussion Farida Sultana, founder of Shakti Community Council, a pioneer organisation to combat domestic violence, said confidence would have to be build up among the victims to combat domestic violence.

She said if a woman does not get peaceful environment in a family for her living, she should leave it immediately.

"Our women tolerate brutal repression from their husbands as they think that they have no place to go, " Farida said.

"We have to ensure the safety of both mother and her children and empower them to maintain their livelihood," she added.

Farida said the male member of a family will have to develop a mentality to accept the social differences as every person has different views and desires.

Narrating her experience about combating domestic violence that she gathered during her visit to New Zealand, Advocate Fawzia Karim Firoz, former president of BNWLA, laid emphasis on restructuring the family court of Bangladesh.

She also stressed the need for making the judicial system of the country more women friendly.

Advocate Salma Ali, executive director of BNWLA, said, "We should let the society to understand the intensity of domestic violence and stressed on community participation for addressing such a heinous social crime."

Advocate Sigma Huda, president of BNWLA, underscored the need for enacting an independent domestic violence act to address the crime.

She said enacting a new law will not only help combating domestic violence but also make the existing law more effective.

Women lawyers, activists, and representatives of different NGOs were present at the discussion.