Mob attacks Dhaka police over harassment case

Dhaka

A large mob gathered outside Shahbagh Police Station early Thursday, demanding the release of Arnob, a Dhaka University library bookbinder, who was arrested for allegedly harassing a female student. The protestors, identifying as "Tawhidi Janata," staged a sit-in, insisting the accused had done nothing wrong.

The police confirmed that Arnob confronted the student, questioning her attire and telling her to dress more modestly. The student filed a complaint with both university authorities and the police, leading to his arrest. Dhaka University Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed stated that Arnob admitted to his actions before being handed over to law enforcement.

However, the protestors claimed that Arnob had merely offered moral advice, insisting that he should not be punished. Some even threatened legal action against the complainant, accusing her of defaming him.

This incident comes amid growing concerns over moral policing and gender-based violence in Bangladesh. Women's rights groups, including the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, have criticized the increasing number of harassment and assault cases, calling for stronger legal action against offenders.

Earlier this week, protests erupted over a separate harassment case, where a government official's remarks about women’s clothing sparked outrage. Protestors burned effigies of Home Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, accusing the government of failing to protect women from harassment and violence.

Several cases of sexual violence were reported in February 2025, raising concerns about law enforcement’s effectiveness. Activists warn that incidents like the Shahbagh protest reflect a worsening culture of impunity, where victims of harassment face intimidation instead of justice.