INARUWA: State Minister for Women, Children and Social Welfare Development Mohammad Jakir Hussen on Tuesday said the focus now will be on minimising the increasing rate of violence against women and children.

Talking to locals in the rural parts of Sunsari district yesterday, State Minister Hussen said the lack of education is one of the reasons behind women and children falling victim to violence, and the rise in human trafficking.

The Ministry would dedicate itself in minimising VAW, State Minister Hussen added.

On a different note, the Minister said the third phase of local elections schedule for September 18 in Province 2 would be held as per schedule. He further added that the government is working to hold the provincial, parlimantary elections in the stipulated time within mid-January.