Minority Disabled Woman Gang-Raped While Returning from Kirtan in Bhola

A 26-year-old minority and mentally disabled woman was gang-raped while returning from a kirtan event in Tajumuddin Upazila, Bhola. The incident occurred late on Sunday night (February 22) in Daspara area of Shashiganj village, under Chandpur Union. She is currently undergoing treatment in critical condition at Bhola 250-Bed General Hospital.

According to the police and the victim’s family, the woman, a mother of one, had been living with her mother after separating from her husband a few months ago. On Sunday afternoon, she attended a kirtan organized in Aralia village. After the event ended around 9 pm, several familiar young men took her in an auto-rickshaw. Later, she was taken to a betel nut garden in Shashiganj village, where she was allegedly raped and tortured throughout the night in turns.

At dawn, locals found her lying naked and bloodied on the road in Daspara and rescued her. She was first taken to Tajumuddin Upazila Health Complex and, after receiving initial treatment, was referred to Bhola Sadar Hospital for advanced care.

The victim’s mother alleged that three young men named Rakib, Shakil, and Russell took her daughter and assaulted her. She demanded a proper investigation and exemplary punishment for the perpetrators.

The Officer-in-Charge of Tajumuddin Police Station, Md. Abdus Salam, said that a suspect named Rakib has been detained and is being interrogated in connection with the incident. He added that necessary legal action will be taken based on the investigation.

Hospital physician Dr. Md. Shamsul Alam said the victim’s physical condition is critical, and medical examinations are ongoing. Another doctor, Dr. Iqbal Hossain, reported that she suffered heavy bleeding and is under close observation.

Human rights activists stated that minority and disabled women are socially more vulnerable. They emphasized the need for prompt and sensitive action by law enforcement to ensure their protection. They also called for the victim’s medical treatment, psychological support, and legal assistance.

The incident has sparked concern and outrage in the area. Law enforcement officials said that all aspects of the allegation are being investigated, and strict action will be taken against those responsible based on evidence. Human rights organizations warned that failure to ensure swift justice and exemplary punishment could further increase concerns about the safety of minority and marginalized women.