Protesters burned an effigy of Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday, demanding his removal from office over his failure to curb crime.

They accused him of incompetence as incidents of murder, rape, repression, mob violence, and moral policing continue to rise across the country.

The demonstration, organised by Bangladesh Against Rape and Abuse, took place at Lalmatia, Asadgate, featuring women from various sectors.

It followed a recent mob attack on two women in Lalmatia, which sparked widespread public outrage.

Protesters argued that despite repeated outcries, the law-and-order situation is deteriorating, with little to no action taken against perpetrators.

They specifically condemned the inaction against local extortionist Rinku, reportedly affiliated with the Jubo League, who allegedly incited the Lalmatia mob incident.

Protesters burn the effigy of Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury near the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban yesterday demanding that he be removed. Photo: Amran Hossain

The protesters carried placards with slogans such as "Stop Slut-Shaming!" "Law for Women, But Where is the Law for Men?" and "Ensure Safety or Step Down!"

Addressing the crowd, Adrita Roy, a student of Jahangirnagar University, said, "Two days ago, two female students were attacked by a mob in Lalmatia. Even after the formation of the interim government and changing the home affairs adviser, incidents of rape, torture, and abuse of women have only increased. We fought at the frontline during the July uprising, but those in power are failing to ensure our safety."

She said, "We protested against the ongoing rape and repression and marched towards the home ministry. Yet, the police -- who fail to arrest rapists, control mobs, or catch thieves -- obstructed our precession. Some of our protesters were injured as a result. We later organised a torch procession, giving the home adviser a 24-hour ultimatum to resign and apologise. He has failed to do so. Now, he must be removed."

Lamia Islam, a student of Prime University, echoed these demands, accusing the home adviser of "inciting the mob" with his remarks.

"Smoking in public is a civil offence at best. But physical assault is a criminal offence. How can a home adviser justify such a crime?" she asked.

Following the rally, protesters marched through Lalmatia before gathering near the National Parliament building, where they set fire to an effigy of the home adviser.