Men must come forward to promote gender equality and ensure human rights, they said.

Khan Foundation organised the seminar titled 'Judicial Gender Equality and Human Rights -- Broadening the Spectrum' at its auditorium in the city. Some 50 judges from across the country attended the seminar.

Judges being sensitised with the fact and real condition of women in society can play a vital role in promoting women's rights and improving the situation, said Chief Justice Syed JR Muddassir Husain.

He spoke of 5 R's -- raid on criminals, rescuing the victims, recovery of the victims from physical and mental trauma, rehabilitation and reorientation of the victims -- which are needed to stop violence against women and make them productive citizens.

He also called for improved law enforcement mechanism and review of some laws to end the scourge of violence.

Presenting the keynote paper, Justice Douglas R Campbell of Canada highlighted the importance of close relationship between the judiciary and the community and of training of judges to enhance their understanding on women's issues and human rights.

While delivering verdict in cases relating to violence against women, judges should feel the pains of women who were oppressed, he said.

Law Minister Moudud Ahmed said, "We are trying to empower women as it is one of our priorities."

Mentioning the government efforts to ensure gender equality and human rights, he said investment in women's development always brings better returns for the nation.

"We plan to make arrangements for free education of women up to degree level if we are voted to power in the next general election", he added.

The minister also stressed the need for raising awareness to end violence against women.

Executive Director of Khan Foundation Advocate Rokhsana Khondker also spoke at the seminar chaired by Minister for Science and Information and Communication Technology Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan.