Police in Savar, Dhaka, have arrested a madrasa principal over allegations that he sexually assaulted a 15-year-old student.
The accused has been identified as Golam Rabbani, 40, principal of a madrasa in the Tetuljhora area of Savar. He was arrested around noon on Wednesday (19 August), according to police.
Savar Model Police Station Investigation Officer Nur Mohammad confirmed the arrest on Thursday (20 August).
According to the case details, the student’s family submitted a written complaint to Savar Model Police Station after the alleged incident. Following receipt of the complaint, police began an initial inquiry and subsequently took legal action based on the information available to them.
Police later conducted an operation and arrested Rabbani in connection with the allegations. Investigators said a case was filed on the basis of the victim’s complaint and information gathered during the preliminary investigation.
After his arrest, the accused was produced before a court, police said. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the allegation is continuing.
The incident has caused concern among local parents and residents in the area. News of the allegation against the head of a religious educational institution has prompted calls for a thorough and impartial investigation. Some local residents have also demanded strict punishment if the allegations are established through the legal process.
Cases involving allegations of sexual abuse of minors are particularly sensitive, as they require investigators to establish the facts while ensuring the safety and dignity of the alleged victim. The judicial process will determine the validity of the allegations on the basis of evidence collected during the investigation.
Savar Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Saiful Alam told Kalbela that a case had been filed following the victim’s complaint. He said the accused had been arrested and sent to court, while further investigation into the incident was under way.
Police have not disclosed further details about the alleged incident or the evidence being examined as the investigation remains ongoing. The accused, like any person facing criminal allegations, is presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court.
