Ear-Pulling incident sparks outrage: Trader leader apologizes after forcing sit-ups during Ramadan

In a bizarre and controversial incident in Lakshmipur, a local trader leader has apologized after forcing several people to do sit-ups by pulling their ears for eating at a shop during Ramadan. 

The incident, which has drawn widespread attention, highlights the tensions surrounding religious practices and public behavior during the holy month.

What Happened?

On Wednesday afternoon, Abdul Aziz, the acting president of the Lakshmipur Traders‍‍` Association, stormed into a food shop in the city’s Chawkbazar area. Armed with a stick, he confronted several individuals who were eating during fasting hours. 

In what many are calling an extreme and humiliating act, Aziz forced them to do sit-ups by pulling their ears as punishment.

The incident quickly spread across social media, sparking outrage and debate. 

Many criticized Aziz for taking the law into his own hands, while others questioned the appropriateness of his actions, even during Ramadan.

Apology Under Police Mediation

Later that evening, the district police intervened and arranged a meeting between Aziz and two of the victims. In the presence of authorities, Aziz formally apologized for his actions. 

A video of the apology, which has since gone viral on Facebook, shows Aziz hugging the victims, Munshurul Haque and Saju, and seeking their forgiveness.

"I admit that what I did was wrong and a crime," Aziz said in the video. "It was a matter of religious sentiment, and I should not have acted the way I did. I apologize to them and hope they forgive me. I will not repeat such actions or be involved in anything like this again."

No Formal Complaint Filed

Despite the public outcry, the victims did not file a formal complaint with the police. 

Lakshmipur Sadar Model Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abdul Monnaf confirmed that Aziz was brought to the station for questioning. 

"We called in both Aziz and the two victims. However, no one filed a formal complaint against him. Since Aziz apologized, we released him," the OC said.

Mixed Reactions

The incident has sparked mixed reactions from the public. 

While some have condemned Aziz’s actions as excessive and inappropriate, others have acknowledged his apology and expressed hope that such incidents will not recur.

Social media users have been particularly vocal, with many calling for stricter enforcement of laws to prevent individuals from taking justice into their own hands. 

"No one has the right to humiliate others, regardless of the circumstances," wrote one user.

Broader Implications

This incident raises important questions about the boundaries of enforcing religious practices and the role of community leaders in maintaining public order. 

While Ramadan is a time of heightened religious observance, it is also a period that demands compassion and understanding.

As the dust settles on this controversial episode, many are hoping it serves as a reminder of the need for tolerance and respect, even in moments of disagreement.

For now, Abdul Aziz’s apology has brought a temporary resolution to the matter, but the conversation it has sparked is far from over.