Rapists let off the hook
An indigenous girl died yesterday, two days after she had set herself on fire in Amtulipara village of Godagari.
Serafina Mardi, 14, who was raped 10 months ago, ended her life failing to stand the humiliation any longer, said Rabindranath Soren, general secretary of JatiyaAdibashi Parishad.
After being raped by nine indigenous men on April 4 last year, the victim filed a complaint with Godagari Police Station, accusing Kallus Mardi, Nirmol Murmu, Julian Mardi, Jewel Mardi, Semon Hembrom, Simon Murmu, Porimol Soren, Ilias Murmu and Ranjan Mardi.
She was denied justice as the accused managed to lure her family into a Tk 1.40 lakh out-of-court settlement, the Adibashi leader said adding the accused are influential in local indigenous community.
As part of the settlement, the girl’s family married her off to one of the accused, Nirmol Murmu, adding to her torment.
Soon after the accused made sure they were out of judicial proceedings, Nirmol divorced the girl, said Rabindranath Soren.
The victim, a class-five student of Novera Surshuni Christian Missionary School, attempted suicide several times since the settlement on November 24, said her brother-in-law Jacob Soren.
On Thursday, Serafina was taken to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital with burns all over her body. Just two days later, her family took her back home.
Rabindranath Soren alleged the accused rapists had forced the family to take Serafina from the hospital though doctors suggested that her treatment should continue.
