A field organiser from the non-governmental organisation (NGO) BRAC allegedly struck a client on the head during a dispute over loan repayments in Sadullapur, Gaibandha.
Dhaperhat Police Investigation Centre SI Supad Haldar confirmed the matter on Thursday.
The injured client, identified as Lucky Begum, is receiving treatment at the Pirganj Upazila Health Complex. The accused worker, Salma Begum, is a field organiser at BRAC’s Dhaperhat branch.
Local sources said Lucky had borrowed Tk30,000 from the branch. On Wednesday, Salma demanded the outstanding dues, leading to a scuffle inside the BRAC office.
Although Lucky initially left, she later returned to the market with her husband, sparking a second confrontation. During this clash, Salma struck Lucky on the head.
Lucky’s husband, Mintu Mia, added that almost the entire loan had been repaid, with only Tk1,500 remaining.
Admitting to the assault, Salma said the outstanding amount was Tk3,000. She added, “When I asked for the money, the client verbally abused me, and later her husband beat me up. In anger, I struck her at one point.”
While the branch manager declined to comment, BRAC’s District Coordinator (Microfinance) Mosharraf Hossain said the incident was unexpected. He added, “BRAC believes in a zero-tolerance policy against any wrongdoing, and the offender will be punished.”
Police have received written complaints from both parties and are investigating the matter.
