In a shocking incident in Barguna, Montu Chandra Das (35), the father of a minor rape survivor, was allegedly murdered just six days after filing a case against the perpetrators. His body was discovered in a bush behind his residence in the Kalibari area of Barguna municipality in the early hours of Tuesday (March 11). Montu, an employee at a poultry shop owned by Zakir Hossain in Barguna town, had filed a case on March 5, accusing a man of abducting and raping his seventh-grade daughter. Family members claim that Montu was killed in retaliation for pursuing legal action against the accused.
Background of the Incident
According to police sources, Montu filed a case at Barguna Sadar Police Station on March 5, alleging that his daughter was abducted and raped on her way to school. The prime accused, Srijib Chandra Roy, was arrested the same day and sent to jail by the court. However, Montu’s family alleges that they had been receiving threats from the accused’s family and associates since the case was filed.
Details of the Murder
On Tuesday (March 11), locals found Montu’s body around 1:00 AM. His wife, Shikha Rani Das, stated that Montu had called her earlier in the evening, informing her that he would be late returning home due to work at the poultry shop. When he did not return, she called his mobile phone and heard it ringing from a bush behind their house. Upon investigating, she discovered Montu’s body. His clothes were wet, there were bite marks on his hands, and his body was covered in mud.
Locals immediately informed the police, who recovered the body and sent it to Barguna General Hospital for an autopsy. Preliminary investigations suggest that Montu was strangled to death. Additional Superintendent of Police (Barguna Sadar Circle) Abdul Halim stated, “Initial findings indicate that this was a murder. We are investigating the suspects named by the family. The body has been sent for autopsy, and we are working to uncover the truth behind the death.”
Family’s Allegations
Montu’s wife, Shikha Rani Das, accused the family and associates of the prime accused of orchestrating the murder. She said, “A week ago, Montu Chandra Das filed a case after our daughter was raped. The main accused is in jail, but his family and friends are behind this killing.” Shikha also revealed that they have three daughters, the youngest of whom is only one month old. Montu was the sole breadwinner of the family.
Montu’s sister, Kanak Rani Das, said, “I spoke to Montu on the phone yesterday evening. He told me that the accused’s family was threatening him. I warned him to be careful. Later, when he didn’t return home, I went to his house and found his body in the bushes behind the house.”
Police Investigation and Actions
Barguna police have detained four individuals for questioning in connection with the murder. The prime accused remains in jail. However, police are investigating the involvement of his family and associates in the murder. Additional Superintendent of Police Abdul Halim stated, “We have launched a covert investigation and are verifying information. Legal action will be taken against those involved based on concrete evidence.”
Social Outcry
The incident has sparked outrage in the local community. Many have criticized the lack of stringent action against the accused in the rape case, which they believe led to this tragic murder. Human rights activists have emphasized the need for swift justice in cases of rape and murder to ensure the rule of law and protect victims’ families.
Conclusion
The murder of Montu Chandra Das has not only devastated a family but also raised serious questions about justice and the rule of law in society. All eyes are now on the police investigation and judicial process. minoritywatch calls for immediate justice and the protection of human rights, urging law enforcement and the administration to ensure a thorough investigation and fair trial.
Sources: dhakapost, channel24, dhakatribune, ntv
Date: March 12, 2024
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