Police have detained Maulana Saidur Rahman, the superintendent of a local women’s madrasa in Bheramara, Kushtia, following allegations of raping a 10-year-old student. The victim is currently in critical condition, undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital.
According to the victim’s family, the incident came to light on Sunday (March 15) when the child’s mother went to the madrasa to take her home for the holidays. At that time, the superintendent’s wife claimed the child was suffering from a fever. However, sensing the severity of her daughter’s condition, the mother rushed her to the Bheramara Upazila Health Complex.
Due to her deteriorating state, doctors immediately referred the child to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, where she was admitted to the ICU.
Police Action and Investigation
Following the family’s discovery of the assault, police conducted a raid and detained Maulana Saidur Rahman on Monday.
Muhammad Zahedur Rahman, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Bheramara Police Station, confirmed the detention. “The accused has been taken into custody. The matter is under active investigation, and strict legal action will be taken in accordance with the law,” he stated.
Family Demands Justice
The victim, a resident of Daulatpur, had been enrolled in the madrasa eight months ago to stay and study with her peers. Her mother noted a suspicious decline in the madrasa’s enrollment, stating that while there were 40–45 students when her daughter joined, the number has recently dwindled to just seven.
“I want the harshest punishment for this crime,” the mother said through tears.
The child’s father, overwhelmed with grief, expressed his disbelief. “I am an unlettered man; I sent my daughter there to learn the Holy Quran. How could they do such a thing? These people are worse than animals.”
Police are currently recording statements and preparing the formal case filing.
