Marriage matchmaker tied to tree, beaten over disputed marriage in Bogura

A marriage matchmaker was allegedly tied to a tree and brutally beaten in Sherpur upazila of Bogura for arranging a marriage that later sparked a dispute between two families.

The incident took place on Sunday evening (June 15), in Sutrapur Goalpara village.

The victim, Mujibar Sheikh, 65, a resident of Omarpara village. He is currently receiving treatment for serious injuries at Shahid Ziaur Rahman Medical College Hospital.

According to a written complaint filed by Mujibar’s brother, four individuals, including the bride’s father, Zahurul Islam, were involved in the assault.

Local sources said that on June 9, Sumaiya Khatun, 21, of Goalpara village married Md Munna, 28, of Ghasuria village in Shajahanpur. Mujibar Sheikh had officiated the marriage. A dispute reportedly arose between the bride’s and groom’s families shortly after the wedding.

Speaking from his hospital bed, Mujibar said he was lured to the bride’s home with a promise of gifts, only to be tied to a tree and beaten for nearly an hour. “They hit me with sticks on my head, hands, and feet,” he recounted.

Zahurul Islam admitted to the assault, saying he acted in anger after his daughter’s in-laws began mistreating her. “Mujibar told us the groom's family was good, but it turned out otherwise,” he said.

Mujibar’s family insists he is not a professional matchmaker and demands the immediate arrest of those involved. “This was an inhumane act,” said his son, Sonaullah Sheikh.

Tofazzal Hossain, sub-inspector (SI) of Sherpur Police Station, said, "An investigation is underway and initial findings support the complaint. Appropriate legal action will follow upon completion of the inquiry," he said.