A Dhaka University (DU) student has alleged that her family tied her up after labeling her “mentally ill.”
The matter came to light when she sought help through a Facebook post, which quickly drew the attention of classmates and other students.
Umme Salma, a student of the Information Science and Library Management Department, said the incident occurred at her home in South Palakata village, Eidgaon upazila, Cox’s Bazar.
Around 1:20am on Monday, she posted in the Facebook group “Dhaka University Nirapotta Moncho,” claiming she was forcibly given “medicine” and tied with ropes. She said her family does not want her to continue her studies and has confined her at home.
She further alleged that her elder brother physically assaulted her and that her life is in danger. She appealed for urgent help to return to Dhaka.
After the post spread on social media, several DU students informed the local police station. Eidgaon police later rescued her from the house.
Eidgaon Police Station’s Officer-in-charge (OC) Rubel Asadur confirmed that female police officers rescued the student and brought her to the station, where she is now safe.
He told Times of Bangladesh: “The matter is somewhat complex and confusing. The family claims the student is mentally ill and suicidal, which is why they confined her. They even showed some prescriptions.”
The OC added that police will speak to the victim and verify the truth. “If her illness is proven, necessary treatment will be arranged. Otherwise, legal action will be taken against the family,” he said.
