In 2008, following the sexual harassment reports pouring in all over Bangladesh, the Bangladesh National Women Lawyers Association (BNWLA) brought before the Supreme Court a writ against the Government of Bangladesh on sexual harassment. After careful review by the high court, it was found out that there were no specific legislative provisions for addressing sexual harassment of women and girl children. In 2009, The Court invoked its responsibility under article 102 of the Constitution for enforcing fundamental rights in the absence of legislation. Thus, the Supreme Court defined “sexual harassment” and laid down directives in the form of guidelines to protect women and girl children from sexual harassment at the workplace and educational institutions in both the public and private sectors. Sexual Harassment and Compliant Committee is a by-product of the outcome of the Writ petition.
