Today, the High Court in Dhaka began its hearing on the death reference and appeals filed in the case of eight-year-old Asiya, who was raped and murdered in Magura. The court, led by Justice Bhishmadev Chakrabortty and Justice KM Rasheduzzaman Raja, is reviewing the conviction and sentence handed down by the Magura Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal on May 17, 2025.
Background of the Case
Asiya was visiting her elder sister's in-laws' home on March 6, 2025, when she was abducted, raped, and brutally murdered. She was found in critical condition and taken to Magura Sadar Hospital, before being transferred to the capital's Combined Military Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries on March 13, 2025. The case was filed by Asiya's mother with the Magura Sadar Police Station on March 8, 2025, under the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act.
The tribunal convicted Hitu Sheikh, the father-in-law of Asiya's elder sister, and sentenced him to death. However, it acquitted Hitu's wife, Jaheda Begum, and their sons, Ratul Sheikh and Sajib Sheikh, of all charges. The death reference was submitted to the High Court on May 21, 2025, for its approval.
Importance of the Hearing
The High Court's hearing on this case is crucial as it deals with the severe crime of child rape and murder, which has deeply affected the nation. The bench, formed by Chief Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury on June 10, 2026, is dedicated to handling cases involving death sentences under the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act.
The outcome of this hearing will significantly impact the legal framework and public perception regarding the protection of children in Bangladesh. It also underscores the judiciary's role in ensuring justice for victims of such heinous crimes.
Representatives from the state, including Deputy Attorney General Md Imam Hossain Tarek, Assistant Attorneys General Rohani Siddiqua, and Mahbuba Tasnim Akhi, are participating in the hearing to present their case.
