In a disturbing incident in Megharpatal village of Bhuapur Upazila, Tangail, four young men have been accused of sexually harassing a housewife while canvassing for votes. The alleged assault took place on Monday, 9 February, around midday, according to official complaints.
The victim’s husband has formally lodged a written complaint with the Joint District and Sessions Judge’s Court in Tangail, naming the four individuals. Court sources confirm that the complaint has been accepted and an investigation has been ordered.
The accused are: Shahidul (30), son of Ibrahim; Sohel (25), son of Anwar Hossain; Enamul (32), son of Ali Akbar Munsi; and Al Amin (30), son of Akbar Fakir. All four are residents of the same village.
According to the complaint, the accused visited the home of a local man named Nazmul to canvass support for a political party symbolised by ‘Dharipalla’. At the time, neither Nazmul nor any other male household member was present. The housewife requested that they leave, but the accused allegedly remained, pressuring her to vote for the designated symbol.
When the woman explained that she was not a voter and that her family had decided to vote for the opposing party symbol, ‘Dhaner Shish’, the men reportedly became agitated. The complaint states that Shahidul forcibly embraced the woman and touched her inappropriately, while the others allegedly attempted group assault.
Neighbours responded to the victim’s cries for help, prompting the accused to flee the scene. The complaint also alleges that the perpetrators threatened her with death should she report the incident.
Details of the Accused
| No. | Name | Age | Father’s Name | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shahidul | 30 | Ibrahim | Megharpatal, Bhuapur |
| 2 | Sohel | 25 | Anwar Hossain | Megharpatal, Bhuapur |
| 3 | Enamul | 32 | Ali Akbar Munsi | Megharpatal, Bhuapur |
| 4 | Al Amin | 30 | Akbar Fakir | Megharpatal, Bhuapur |
Speaking to the press, Abdullah Al Mamun, Amir of the local Jamaat branch, dismissed the allegations as “completely false and politically motivated,” claiming they were fabricated to malign his party.
However, the investigating officer, Sub-Inspector Merajul Islam Rubel of Bhuapur Police Station, confirmed that the complaint has been recorded and the matter is being treated seriously. Preliminary steps, including a site inspection and witness statements, are underway. Authorities have stated that legal action will follow should the allegations be substantiated.
The incident has caused widespread local concern. Residents and observers have expressed unease over the potential impact of election-related violence and sexual harassment on the democratic process. There is a strong demand for a prompt, impartial investigation to ensure justice and restore public confidence.