Doctors Arrested Over Child Abuse Allegations

A medical couple in Brahmanbaria has been arrested and sent to jail following serious allegations of abusing an 11-year-old domestic help, a case that has sparked widespread concern over child labour and the protection of minors in household service.

According to police, the arrests were made on Thursday afternoon from their residence in the North Mouarail area of Brahmanbaria town. The accused, identified as Dr KM Abdulllah Al Noman and Dr Kimia Sadat Toffa, are both employed at a private hospital. Following their detention, they were produced before a court, which rejected their bail petition and ordered them to be sent to prison.

Family members of the victim stated that the child, originally from Pakshimul village in Sarail upazila, had been placed at the couple’s home by her maternal grandfather approximately nine months ago. They alleged that she was engaged in domestic work and initially maintained contact with her family. However, communication ceased about three months ago.

Concern grew within the family when the couple reportedly informed them that the child had run away after allegedly stealing. Suspicious of the claim, the family began searching for her and ultimately filed a general diary with Brahmanbaria Sadar Police Station on 26 April.

Subsequently, police recovered the child from a location near the couple’s residence. She was found in a seriously injured condition and admitted to Brahmanbaria General Hospital for treatment. Medical officials confirmed that she had multiple injuries, including swelling and signs of both recent and older physical trauma.

While receiving treatment, the child alleged that she was subjected to repeated physical abuse, including beatings with sticks for minor mistakes. She further claimed that hot oil had been thrown at her during episodes of punishment.

The victim’s father has demanded justice, stating that his daughter was subjected to systematic abuse and falsely portrayed as a thief. He called for a thorough investigation and legal action against those responsible.

However, the accused doctor denied the allegations, claiming that the child was not employed as a domestic worker but rather stayed in the household as a companion to their children. He also alleged that she had taken money and gold ornaments before leaving the home.

Police officials, however, confirmed that no theft complaint had been lodged against the child. Investigators stated that the case is proceeding based on the complaint filed by the victim’s father, and both accused individuals are now in custody.

Authorities are currently collecting a medical report to verify the extent and nature of the injuries as part of the ongoing investigation.

Summary of the Case

Human rights advocates in Bangladesh have repeatedly raised concerns about the exploitation of child domestic workers, noting that weak oversight and informal employment arrangements often leave children vulnerable to abuse. They have urged authorities to complete investigations swiftly and ensure strict legal action where wrongdoing is established.