Dhaka, Feb. 2 -- Bangladesh recorded a significant increase in rape and sexual violence in 2025, with girls accounting for the majority of victims, according to rights groups monitoring violence against women and children.

Data from Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (BMP) shows that 786 women and girls were victims of rape and gang rape in 2025, compared with 516 in 2024, marking a 52.3% year-on-year increase.

Of those victims, 543 were girls, a rise of 47.9% from the previous year.

The findings, published in BMP's 2025 annual report, point to a disturbing escalation in sexual violence, particularly against minors.

The organisation defines girls as individuals aged between one and under 18 years.

Widespread Violence

An analysis of reports ...