Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman has expressed satisfaction over the death penalty given on Sunday (June 7), to the two accused -- Sohel Rana and his wife Swapna Akter for the rape and murder of eight-year-old child Ramisa Akter at Pallabi in the capital.
He stated that the trial proceedings of the case were completed in just six working days after overcoming all legal stages, which is a first in Bangladesh.
Asaduzzaman further added that he is satisfied with the punishment announced in the verdict and expects that this judgment will be upheld in the higher court as well.
The minister expressed optimism that the execution of the verdict would take place within the next three months after fulfilling all legal requirements.
The Law Minister was giving his reactions to the verdict while talking to journalists at his secretariat office in the capital on Sunday (June 7).
Asaduzzaman stated that Ramisa's rape and murder was very unfortunate and heartbreaking incident for the entire nation. While legal action cannot bring the child back to her parents, the government made every effort to ensure justice.
Following the incident, he said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman visited Ramisa's home and promised to complete the trial within one month. The government has successfully fulfilled this commitment.
The Law Minister said the crime happened on May 19, and the verdict was delivered within just 6 working days of the trial, marking a historic and unprecedented milestone in Bangladesh's judiciary.
He also said if the death reference file of Ramisa murder case reaches the High Court within 7 days, the paperbook will be prepared, and initiatives will be taken to expedite the hearing of the case accordingly.
The Law Minister said once the High Court reopens, applications will be filed for the swift resolution of the fast-tracked cases of Ramisa, Sinha, Achia, and Rajon.
He further stated that if the relevant bench of the Supreme Court prioritizes these cases, he hopes it will be possible to execute the verdict within the next three months.
Ramisa's father and plaintiff of the case Abdul Hannan Molla expressed his satisfaction with the verdict and demanded its swift execution.
It may be mentioned that the rape and murder of Ramisa Aktar, an eight-year-old second-grade student, in Pallabi on May 19 sparked intense nationwide reactions. Within just five days, the police completed the investigation and submitted the charge sheet, and the fast-track trial process began.
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