65-Year-Old Man Held Over Alleged Rape of Child in Chandpur

Police have taken 65-year-old Delwar Shikder, also known as Delu Shikder, into custody over allegations that he raped a four-year-old girl in Matlab Uttar upazila of Chandpur. The incident, reportedly occurring on October 26, triggered tension in the area on Sunday night (November 2). Police visited the scene, brought the situation under control and took the accused into custody. Local residents have demanded proper medical treatment for the child and exemplary punishment for the accused if the allegations are proven.

According to the child's family, the incident took place at around 10am on October 26 in Sardar Kandi village under Farajikandi Union of Matlab Uttar upazila. News of the allegation spread in the area on Sunday night, sparking anger among local residents. Upon receiving information, Matlab Uttar Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Manas Barua went to the scene with a team of officers. Tension flared again when police moved to take the accused into custody. Officers eventually brought the situation under control and took him to the police station.

The child's mother alleged that her father, Almas, took the girl to Delu Shikder's house on the morning of the incident. The child was watching cartoons on the accused's mobile phone. At one point, Almas left the child there, after which the accused allegedly sexually assaulted her. The mother further claimed that when the child screamed, the man covered her mouth.

The mother said she became concerned after being unable to find her daughter for an extended period. She then went to Delu Shikder's house and found the child crying. The girl subsequently told her mother what had happened. When the mother sought assistance from the accused's family for medical treatment as the child's condition deteriorated, they allegedly dismissed the matter and threatened her. She claimed that although Tk 5,000 was later provided for treatment, the amount was insufficient.

Matlab Uttar Police Station OC Manas Barua said preparations were underway to take the necessary legal action. He added that the matter was being treated seriously and further steps would be taken in accordance with the law.

Tension continues to prevail in the area following the incident. Local residents have called for the child's safety, prompt medical care and an impartial investigation. They have also demanded exemplary punishment if the allegations against the accused are established.