A human chain was formed today in front of The Daily Star Centre in the capital city, demanding justice and a transparent investigation into the tragic death of 15-year-old domestic worker Preeti Urang. Organised under the banner of Shocheton Nagorik Shomaj, participants carried banners with various messages and raised their voices for approximately 30 minutes, calling for the punishment of those responsible for Preeti’s untimely demise.
Preeti, hailing from Moulvibazar’s Kamolganj upazila, tragically lost her life after falling from the eighth-floor flat of Syed Ashfaqul Haque, the executive editor of The Daily Star, on the 6th of February. Promptly following the incident, Preeti’s father, Lokesh Urang, a tea garden worker, filed a case against Ashfaqul and his wife Tania Khondoker under Section 304 (A) of the Penal Code.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Court granted a four-day remand for each of the accused on the 13th of February, highlighting the judicial system’s dedication to ensuring a fair investigation.
The human chain served as a powerful expression of the public’s demand for justice in Preeti’s case. The protesters, uniting under one cause, not only sought accountability for her unfortunate demise but also echoed the voices of countless others who have fallen victim to similar circumstances. Their fervent chants and eye-catching banners conveyed a unified message, urging authorities to take swift action in delivering justice.
With this public demonstration, the community hopes to shed light on the need for comprehensive reforms to protect domestic workers and prevent such heartrending incidents from occurring again. The case has sparked a broader conversation about ensuring the safety and well-being of all workers, particularly those in vulnerable positions.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the welfare of domestic workers across the country. It is essential to prioritize the implementation of necessary regulations and standards to protect them from exploitation and provide a safe working environment.
As the nation mourns the loss of Preeti Urang, the call for justice grows louder. The human chain formed in front of The Daily Star Centre stands as a metaphorical bridge between an aggrieved community and the pursuit of truth. It is anticipated that this demonstration of unity will push the concerned authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, leading to appropriate legal action against those responsible for Preeti’s tragic death.
The demand for justice echoes beyond the borders of Bangladesh, resonating with individuals worldwide who find themselves deeply disturbed by this heart-wrenching incident. It serves as a somber reminder that the fight for justice and the protection of domestic workers is a global cause.
In the face of adversity and collective grief, communities have come together, standing side by side in this human chain to demand justice for Preeti. Only time will tell if their united pleas bear fruit, and if justice will prevail for this young girl who tragically lost her life, leaving behind a community united in its pursuit of truth and accountability.
