Alleged gang rape in Dhamrai sparks outrage as OC shrugs off responsibility

An alleged incident of brutal gang rape of a housewife in Dhamrai has triggered widespread outrage, not only for the gravity of the crime but also for the controversial and dismissive response of the local police.

According to victim sources, the woman was gang-raped at knifepoint after her husband was tied to a pillar and held hostage throughout the night.

The attackers also looted around 3.5 bhori of gold ornaments, including her earrings, necklace and bangles.

The incident reportedly took place late Sunday night (18 Jan) after the couple, residents of Manikganj, went on a trip to Baliati Palace in Dhamrai.

Her husband works as a driver at an establishment in Pabrail area of the upazila.

After sightseeing, the couple, accompanied by her husband's colleague, Krishna Chandra Moni Das, went to visit Krishna’s house.

Later, they were taken to the house of Krishna’s sister, Shanti Rani Das, for an overnight stay.

Victim sources said that around midnight, a group of five to seven youths armed with sharp weapons, including machetes, stormed into the house. They allegedly tied up the husband with ropes and gang-raped the woman throughout the night.

On Monday morning (19 Jan), the victims reportedly sought justice from local union parishad member Montu Chandra Moni Das and other influential locals.

Instead of support, they were allegedly beaten with sticks by unruly youths and forcibly driven out of the village, locals said.

When contacted, Dhamrai Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md Monirul Islam drew sharp criticism for his response.

Speaking to Daily Sun, he said police had visited the spot but failed to find the victims.

Asked whether police had any information about the perpetrators, the OC said, “We know nothing about it. We will have to look into the matter.”

When questioned about efforts to trace the victims, he said police tried to contact them by phone but failed.

“If no one files a complaint, there is nothing for us to do,” he added.

The OC went further, saying, “It is not our responsibility if no complaint is lodged. We received information, visited the spot, and that is enough.”

His remarks have drawn strong reactions from rights activists and locals, who say such a response reflects alarming negligence by law enforcement in a serious crime involving sexual violence, intimidation and mob brutality.

No case has yet been filed in connection with the incident.