Shariatpur: Student sexually assaulted after exam; police launch investigation

PNN News Desk, Shariatpur

In Shariatpur, a student was reportedly sexually assaulted by miscreants while returning home after an exam. Another classmate accompanying her was also allegedly beaten and held captive in the same incident. The incident occurred on Tuesday (December 9) evening near the Forest Department office in the town.

The victim is currently receiving treatment at Shariatpur Sadar Hospital. Police rescued the two students from the scene and admitted them to the hospital.

According to local residents and the victim, the student was walking with a male classmate in the Manohar Bazar area of the town after having food at a restaurant. When they reached in front of the Forest Department office, a group of young men suddenly blocked their way. Initially questioning them, the situation escalated into a frightening ordeal.

The classmates were beaten, and the miscreants snatched the boy’s mobile phone. Later, the two students were forcibly taken inside the Forest Department office. There, 8–10 young men demanded 50,000 taka from the student’s guardians. When the demand was rejected, the female student was held for two hours, subjected to physical assault and sexual harassment. It is alleged that there was also an attempt to rape her.

Two local youths passing nearby were alerted by the girl and quickly informed the police. Police arrived and rescued the two students.

Dr. Khandakar Rashed Ahmed, a doctor at Shariatpur Sadar Hospital, said, “The girl reported physical abuse and sexual assault. After medical examination, there was no evidence of rape. However, she is severely traumatized mentally.”

Police also noted some inconsistencies in her statements. Palong Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Shah Alam said, “Initially, she claimed to be a student of a government college but later provided different information. There are discrepancies in her address too. Nevertheless, the complaint is being taken seriously, and efforts are underway to identify the culprits.”

Local residents expressed outrage that such a heinous incident occurred inside a government office and no one took immediate responsibility. The incident has caused tension in the area, raising concerns about safety, and locals are closely monitoring police and administration actions.