Woman beaten by chairman over adultery allegations, video goes viral

Allegations have been raised against Madhabpur Union Parishad Chairman Md Farid Uddin of publicly beating a woman with shoes during an arbitration meeting in Brahmanbaria's Brahmanpara upazila. The incident took place in the Balakia village of Madhabpur Union on Monday, August 17, afternoon. A video of the incident has been widely shared on social media, sparking public outrage and condemnation.

Local sources said allegations of an illicit relationship arose between the woman and a young man named Billal Hossain from the neighbouring Charipara village. A local arbitration meeting was arranged over the matter, where a punitive decision was taken against the woman and the young man concerned.

However, a video circulating on social media shows the woman being publicly humiliated during the arbitration meeting. At one point, she is seen being hit with a shoe. Locals alleged that although the incident occurred in the presence of people at the meeting, no one tried to stop it.

Regarding the matter, Madhabpur Union Parishad Chairman Md Farid Uddin claimed he had implemented the decision of the arbitration. However, legal experts said there is no scope to physically torture or publicly humiliate anyone in the name of justice. Such punishment has no legal basis.

Assistant Public Prosecutor of Cumilla Judge Court Advocate Arifur Rahman Shrabon termed the incident deplorable, saying no one has the right to take the law into their own hands, even if the allegations are true. Established legal procedures must be followed to resolve complaints. Physical torture in the name of arbitration can create disorder in society, he added.

Local residents have expressed outrage over the incident. They alleged that the public humiliation of a woman in the presence of an elected representative is unacceptable. They demanded identification of those involved and legal action against them.

Brahmanpara Police Station OC Md Faruk Hossain said they have been informed about the incident and will investigate and take necessary action. Upazila Executive Officer Munni Islam also said an investigation is ongoing and legal steps will be taken if the allegations are proven true.