Journalist interview triggers violent backlash: Child and family attacked in Madhabpur

In Madhabpur, Habiganj, a child was attacked along with his family after giving a statement to journalists protesting the encroachment of a public road. 

The incident occurred on Monday, March 10, and the child and his family members are currently receiving treatment at Habiganj Sadar Hospital.

The child who was attacked is named Sheikh Mohammad Shafi (10), the son of Sohel Mia from the village of Andiura in the Upazila.

Shafi is a seventh-grade student and the top student of his class at Andiura Umetunnisa High School.

It has been reported that recently Shafi gave a statement to journalists protesting the encroachment of the road in front of their house.

Following intervention by the local Upazila administration, the obstruction to the road was removed. 

However, the encroachment had caused damage to the reputation of the criminals involved in the land grab, and as a result, Shafi and his family were attacked. 

To reclaim the road, Shafi’s father, Sohel Mia, had submitted a written petition to the UNO and the district administration. 

Shafi‍‍`s family is currently going through a difficult time due to these incidents.

Additionally, the criminals have been threatening Shafi‍‍`s family to prevent them from filing a case. 

They are currently unable to enter their home due to the fear of retaliation.

Shafi’s father, Sohel Mia, has accused local housewife Rina Begum and Jumon Mia and their associates of carrying out the attack. 

He stated, "My son Shafi recently gave a statement to journalists regarding the road encroachment. They have occupied government land and roads. After I petitioned the administration to reclaim the road for public interest, they attacked us. We demand proper justice for this."

When contacted multiple times, the accused Rina Begum could not be reached for comment.

Sub-Inspector Shah Alam of Madhabpur Police Station said, "There is no time to address such issues right now. Why did the boy and his father go to the journalists with these statements? Even the police have no security. Who will provide them with protection?"

When asked for a response, Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abdullah Al Mamun of Madhabpur Police Station said that legal action would be taken if a formal complaint is filed, and the matter would be thoroughly investigated. 

"They have been advised to file a case in court," he added.