Rickshaw-puller father beaten to death by Sechasebok Dal leader for refusing child marriage

Local Correspondent

In Bogura, Jitu Islam (43), joint general secretary of the district Sechasebok Dal, brutally beat and killed rickshaw-puller Shakil Ahmed (45) for refusing to marry off his school-going teenage daughter. Police have arrested Jitu and two others in connection with the murder.

The horrific attack occurred yesterday afternoon at the ghat of the Karatoya River in Fulbari area of Bogura city.

Shakil, severely injured, was admitted to Bogura Ziaur Rahman Medical College Hospital, where he died around 5:30 PM.

Bogura Sadar Police Station’s acting OC Hasan Basir said Shakil lived with his family in a rented house in Shib Bati area. A local influential man had proposed marriage to Shakil’s underage daughter, but Shakil refused, citing her young age and the proposer’s advanced age.

On Saturday noon, 10-15 youths forcibly took Shakil from his home and beat him at Fulbari before leaving him there.

Shakil’s wife, Maleka Begum, filed a murder case at Bogura Sadar Police Station on Sunday, naming Jitu Islam as the prime accused. The case also lists 16 others by name and 8-10 unidentified individuals.

Police have arrested Jitu and his associates—Shafiqul Hasan (28) and Motiur Rahman—while others remain fugitive.

The incident has sparked political backlash. Facing public outrage, BNP leaders have become active.

Bogura Sechasebok Dal president Sarkar Mukul said Jitu was recommended for expulsion for violating discipline and tarnishing the organization’s image. Later, the central committee officially expelled him.

Shakil’s family has demanded justice, while locals express anger and fear. Police say raids are ongoing to arrest the remaining accused.