Bangladesh, July 1 -- Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said the increase in recorded rape cases in the country reflects an improved reporting environment rather than a rise in incidents of violence.

Speaking in Parliament during the discussion on the Home Ministry's budgetary demand and cut motions, he said victims are now able to file cases without social or political interference, which previously discouraged many from seeking justice.

The minister said rape survivors often could not or did not lodge complaints in the past due to stigma and political influence. "Now, whenever someone goes to a police station, the case is recorded. People can also submit general diaries (GD) and FIRs online. There is no interference in this p...