56 girls under 12 raped in Bangladesh within four months of 2026, reports Ain o Salish Kendra

According to data from Ain o Salish Kendra, at least 56 girls under 12 were raped in Bangladesh between January and April 2026, sparking concern among rights activists. Out of 180 reported rape cases during this period, 81 victims were minors. Experts point to weak law enforcement and a culture of impunity as major causes. In response, the women and children affairs ministry plans to launch a separate children affairs department to tackle the issue.