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In a significant move to address the plight of the nation's most vulnerable, the High Court has issued a rule demanding the government justify its "failure" to protect the fundamental rights of street children. This action, prompted by a petition from the Equitas Foundation, signals a critical judicial examination of the state's responsibilities towards these marginalized youth.

The High Court bench has specifically requested explanations on why the government's inaction in taking "urgent and effective measures" should not be deemed illegal. Furthermore, the court is seeking directives for comprehensive nationwide surveys to ascertain the actual conditions of street children, establish robust monitoring and accountability mechanisms, and implement effective strategies to combat all forms of harassment, abuse, neglect, and exploitation they face.

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HC bench of Justice Fahmida Quader and Justice Md Asif Hasan issued the rule following a petition filed by rights organisation Equitas Foundation.

This judicial scrutiny is vital, as it brings national attention to an issue often overlooked in public discourse. While international organizations may highlight the global challenges faced by street children, it is within Bangladesh's own legal framework that their rights must be actively defended. The High Court's intervention underscores the imperative for the government to move beyond rhetoric and implement concrete, rights-based policies that ensure the safety, well-being, and dignity of every child on our streets.

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The HC further sought explanations as to why the authorities should not be directed to conduct investigations and nationwide surveys to determine the actual condition of street children, ensure strict monitoring and accountability mechanisms and take effective measures to prevent all forms of harassment, abuse, neglect and exploitation against them.