Chhatra Dal activists allegedly assault woman, father in Rangabali

A young woman and her elderly father were allegedly assaulted by local political figures in Charomontaz Union, Rangabali Upazila, after she protested harassment, police and sources said. The victims, 23-year-old Dayna Akter, a third-year student at Galachipa Degree College, and her 70-year-old father Rahim Khan, are receiving treatment at Galachipa Upazila Health Complex.

According to Dayna, the incident occurred Wednesday afternoon at Sluice Bazar in Charomontaz Union. She alleged that Saimun Matbor, 23, son of local BNP leader Rezaul Matbor, made obscene gestures toward her. When she protested, he reportedly struck her on the head with an iron rod. Her father, who intervened, was also beaten. Tarikul Islam, president of Charomontaz Union Chhatra Dal, allegedly joined Saimun in the attack.

Dayna said this was not the first time she had been harassed by Saimun. She claimed that previous complaints to local authorities went unaddressed due to the family’s influence. She also said local BNP members are pressuring her not to file a police case and are suggesting settlement through mediation.

Dr. Tushar Ahmed of Galachipa Upazila Health Complex confirmed that Dayna has multiple injuries, but declined to provide details without police permission. Rahim Khan was treated by another doctor.

Locals identified Tarikul Islam as the son of Zakir Matbor, general secretary of Charomontaz Union BNP, and Saimun as the son of ward-level BNP leader Rezaul Matbor. Tarikul claimed that Dayna insulted his uncle during the incident, which provoked the attack, and said that Saimun was also injured and hospitalized.

Nazrul Munsi, president of Charomontaz Union BNP, condemned the assault, saying, “A serious crime has been committed. Those responsible must face justice.”

Shamim Howlader, Officer-in-Charge of Rangabali Police Station, confirmed the victims have been asked to submit written complaints.