As protests entered a third straight day in Dhaka’s Pallabi today, demanding the maximum punishment for those accused in the rape and murder of eight-year-old Ramisa Akter, her grieving father questioned whether his daughter would ever receive justice.

Saying that he is the father of a poor, destitute child, Abdul Hannan Mollah today said he does not know if his cries will reach the government.

Trying to hold back tears, Abdul Hannan told The Daily Star at his Pallabi home, “You are journalists. Have you been able to ensure justice for the Sagar-Runi murders?” referring to the unresolved killing of journalist couple Sagar Sarowar and Meherun Runi.

While expressing frustration over the justice system, Abdul Hannan also praised the efforts of law enforcers involved in the case.

“I salute them -- every officer, whether from DB, CID, PBI, or the local police. I am grateful for the cooperation, sympathy, and sincerity they have shown,” he said.

“But given the complexity of the law in our country, I do not know when I will see justice for my daughter or the final outcome of the trial.”

He also voiced concern over the influence of money in the legal process.“You know that, our government knows that, and the expensive lawyers in our country know that. They can get anyone released on bail in exchange for money,” he said.

“Even a foolish, ignorant person like me understands that. Those of you who are educated surely understand it much better,” Ramisa's father said.