In Bauphal Upazila of Patuakhali, a serious incident of sexual assault and attempted murder has been reported involving a housewife and a local Islamist leader, reportedly over a longstanding land dispute. Despite jumping into a pond in a desperate attempt to protect her honour, the woman could not evade the attack. The incident occurred on Saturday morning, 13 December, at around 9:00 am in Bor Dalima village of Nazirpur Union.
The victim’s husband, Md. Akkas Munshi, alleged that the Ward 9 president of the local Jamaat party, Md. Shuvo, along with his associates, deliberately assaulted his wife. He stated that the attack was premeditated and carried out with intent to harm both physically and psychologically.
The victim’s mother, Mdsa. Mahinur Begum, explained that the family had been involved in a prolonged dispute with the accused over land matters. On the morning of the incident, when Shuvo attempted to construct a small structure on the disputed plot, her daughter intervened. Angered, the accused allegedly grabbed the woman and attempted to forcibly touch her private parts. In an effort to save herself, the woman jumped into a nearby pond, but Shuvo reportedly entered the water and continued the assault. During this incident, her salwar and top were torn, and at one point, there was an attempt to submerge her in the water, constituting an effort to commit murder. According to the mother, several other Jamaat activists were present at the scene, keeping watch while the assault took place.
When the victim’s mother tried to intervene after hearing her daughter’s cries, she too was beaten severely. Eventually, with the assistance of local residents, both mother and daughter were rescued and admitted to Bauphal Upazila Health Complex for treatment.
Dr. Nurjahan Begum, medical officer at the health complex, stated that both the housewife and her mother were mentally distressed, with the victim showing symptoms of difficulty in breathing. Considering their physical and psychological state, they were admitted for treatment and observation. Their current condition is reported to be stable.
Md. Shuvo, the accused, denied all allegations, stating, “If evidence proves me guilty, I will accept whatever punishment the law imposes.” However, he declined to comment on whether he holds any official position within the Jamaat party.
Md. Khalidur Rahman, secretary of Bauphal Upazila Jamaat-e-Islami, remarked, “I do not know what position he holds. I have the union committee records, but not the ward committee ones. I am also not aware of any such incident.”
Bauphal police officer-in-charge, Md. Siddiqur Rahman, confirmed that a written complaint has been filed. Police have been sent to the hospital, and appropriate legal action will be taken following a thorough investigation.