In a harrowing incident in Kalapara Upazila, Patuakhali, a housewife, Rubina Akter, narrowly survived an alleged attempt on her life when she was reportedly thrown into a canal by several members of her in-laws’ family. She lost consciousness during the attack and was later rescued and admitted to hospital for treatment.
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Incident Overview
The episode occurred at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 10 March, in Chalitabunia village. According to Rubina Akter, longstanding disputes with her husband, Badal Howlader, her father-in-law, Shahid Howlader, and other relatives had escalated in recent months.
Rubina stated that the previous evening, her uncle-in-law, Monir Howlader, threatened her husband with murder. She added, “Any minor disagreement with my husband was often blamed on me.” On Tuesday morning, while stepping outside to perform ablution before the pre-dawn meal (Sehri) and prayers, four to five individuals allegedly seized her from behind and threw her into the canal, attempting to drown her.
“I lost consciousness immediately. My husband and neighbours rescued me and took me to hospital, where I am still receiving treatment,” Rubina said.
Husband’s Statement
Her husband, Badal Howlader, expressed grave concern over the incident: “This was a deliberate attempt on my wife’s life. We have brought her to Barishal for advanced medical care.”
Alleged Perpetrators’ Response
Shahid Howlader, Rubina’s father-in-law, denied involvement. “I have already transferred all my land. This is a fabricated plot to evict me from my residence. I have no knowledge of any attempt on her life,” he stated.
Police Response
Kalapara Police Station Officer-in-Charge, Rabiul Islam, confirmed, “We have received a written complaint from the victim. A thorough investigation is underway, and appropriate legal action will follow.”
Key Individuals Involved
| Name | Relation | Statement / Allegation |
|---|---|---|
| Rubina Akter | Housewife | Allegedly thrown into canal by in-laws; attempt on her life |
| Badal Howlader | Husband | Victim was attacked; taken to Barishal for advanced treatment |
| Shahid Howlader | Father-in-law | Denies involvement; claims land already transferred |
| Monir Howlader | Uncle-in-law | Allegedly threatened victim’s husband |
| OC Rabiul Islam | Police Officer | Complaint received; investigation ongoing |
Community Impact
The incident has sparked alarm among local residents and authorities. The investigation remains ongoing, and the police have assured swift legal proceedings.
This case highlights how familial disputes and property-related conflicts can escalate into extreme violence, underlining the need for societal vigilance and legal safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals.