The National Human Rights Commission has issued a directive to Hatia Police Station in Noakhali, urging law enforcement to register a complaint and take legal action in response to an alleged case of rape and physical abuse against a woman. The commission stated that they have been closely monitoring media reports regarding human rights violations.
According to the letter sent by the NHRC, a 32-year-old woman claimed she was sexually assaulted and physically harmed at her residence in Hatia upazila on the night of February 13 for supporting the ‘Shapla Koli’ symbol. The police were instructed to promptly document the victim’s statement and initiate necessary legal measures.
The Daily Star obtained a copy of the letter, which referenced a report published by the daily Jugantor. Officer-in-Charge Saiful Alam confirmed that he had been contacted by the NHRC and had provided the requested information. He also visited the victim’s location and observed evidence of the attack.
As of the latest update, no formal complaint had been lodged. The victim, currently receiving treatment at the Noakhali 250-bed General Hospital, recounted that she was assaulted by three men who broke into her house late Friday night. She alleged that the attackers, including Jubo Dal leader Rahman Hossain, raped her while her husband was confined in a room.
The woman claimed that she was targeted for supporting National Citizen Party candidate Abdul Hannan Masud in the recent national election. She was admitted to the hospital and is under the care of medical professionals. The hospital authorities have collected samples for forensic examination pending a requisition from the police or court.
Security measures have been put in place at the hospital, with female and male police officers assigned to ensure the woman’s safety. Newly elected MP Hannan Masud visited the victim and called for strict punishment for the culprits.
Accused Rahman Hossain and BNP President Mahbubur Rahman denied the allegations, with Hossain asserting that he was attacked himself on the same night. Noakhali BNP Member Secretary Alhaj Md Harunur Rashid Azad emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to identify and prosecute the real perpetrators, cautioning against spreading misinformation without verification.