In Shibaloy upazila of Manikganj, Bangladesh, a 25-year-old woman and mother of one, Naza Akhtar, has died by suicide following allegations that she was subjected to a public beating during a so-called village arbitration over suspected romantic involvement.
According to police and family accounts, the incident occurred on Friday night in North Kashadah village. Local residents convened a traditional informal arbitration meeting, commonly referred to as a village “shalish”, at the residence of Naza Akhtar’s father after she had reportedly gone out on the occasion of Pahela Baishakh with a local young man named Zakir.
During the proceedings, before any resolution or formal discussion could take place, both Naza Akhtar and Zakir were allegedly assaulted on the instruction of those presiding over the arbitration. Witnesses and family members claim that they were beaten with shoes and also subjected to slaps and kicks by several individuals present at the scene.
A video of the incident was recorded and later circulated on social media platforms, leading to widespread public exposure of the assault. Family members state that this dissemination of the footage caused severe psychological distress, humiliation, and fear for the victim.
The following day, while returning home from work at a nearby China-based factory, Naza Akhtar was allegedly threatened by local individuals who warned that she would again face another “trial” and further physical punishment. Shortly after returning home, she reportedly took her own life by hanging inside her residence.
Her body was later recovered, and a post-mortem examination was completed on Sunday evening. She was subsequently buried according to family arrangements.
Shibaloy police confirmed that an investigation was launched following reports of the suicide. Three individuals, identified as members associated with the village arbitration process, were arrested in connection with the incident. The victim’s father has filed a case naming 11 people as accused.
Police Sub-Inspector Suman Chakraborty stated that preliminary findings indicate the woman was subjected to physical violence under the guise of a village arbitration process. He further confirmed that arrests were made following initial inquiries, and the detained individuals have been sent to jail custody.
Key Details of the Case
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Naza Akhtar (25), mother of one |
| Location | North Kashadah village, Shibaloy, Manikganj |
| Incident Date | Friday night (village arbitration) |
| Death | Suicide by hanging (following day) |
| Arrests | 3 individuals |
| Case Filed | 11 accused named by victim’s father |
| Police Officer | SI Suman Chakraborty |
| Legal Action | Investigation ongoing; accused in custody |
Family members have alleged that the arbitration leaders and local youths were responsible for both the assault and subsequent threats. They further claim that no evidence of wrongdoing or misconduct involving Zakir and Naza Akhtar was established during the proceedings.
The investigation remains ongoing under Shibaloy police.