DMP chief regrets remarks on ‘rape’

Dhaka Metropoli-tan Police (DMP) Commissi-oner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali has expressed regret over his recent remarks regarding rape, following widespread criticism.

In an official statement issued yesterday, the DMP commissioner said, "While discussing violence against women and children, I referred to rape as part of a broader spectrum of abuse. If my statement has hurt anyone, I sincerely regret it."

The statement was signed by Talebur Rahman, deputy commissioner (media and public relations) of the DMP.

The apology came in response to backlash over the commissioner's comments at a recent event, where he reportedly suggested media to use alternative terminology for rape, stating that the word sounds "unpleasant".

On Saturday, Sajjat Ali at an event organised by the Broadcast Journalist Centre (BJC) in the capital said, "I strongly dislike the word 'rape'. I request you not to use it. Instead, use terms like 'violence against women' or 'repression of women'. Even the law is called the 'Women and Children Repression [Prevention] Act.' Let's avoid words that sound unpleasant."

The remarks sparked outrage among rights activists and the general public.

The Chief Adviser's Office on Sunday condemned the DMP commissioner's call on the media not to use the term "rape" in their reporting.

"Rape is rape, whether committed against an 8-year-old or an 80-year-old. Such a heinous crime must be called by its rightful name," said a statement issued by the CA Press Wing.