A 45-year-old woman has died by suicide in Jamalpur Sadar Upazila following allegations of public beating and humiliation during a local arbitration over her son’s alleged involvement in cattle theft. The incident took place on Thursday in the East Kotamoni area of Kendua Union.
The deceased, Josna Begum, was the wife of Suruj Mia, a farmer from the same locality. According to family members and local residents, tensions arose after allegations that their son, Sujon Mia, had attempted to steal cattle from a neighbor’s cowshed. When local residents went to apprehend him late Wednesday night, he reportedly fled, after which his parents were detained.
Sources state that Suruj Mia and two others were taken to a local residence and subjected to physical assault during an arbitration held in the presence of a Union Parishad member. When Josna Begum attempted to intervene, she was also reportedly beaten and verbally humiliated. Family members allege that she was subjected to further humiliation the following morning when she sought her husband’s release.
Relatives claim that Josna Begum, unable to endure the violence and public humiliation, returned home and died by suicide by hanging. Police later recovered her body and sent it to Jamalpur General Hospital morgue for autopsy. Family members have demanded accountability and legal action against those involved.
Local Union Parishad member Mohammad Nayeb Ali denied ordering or participating in the assault, stating that residents acted out of frustration over repeated theft allegations against the couple’s son. Police said they were not informed prior to the incident and have begun initial inquiries. Authorities confirmed that further action will depend on the filing of a formal complaint.
Source: Prothom Alo
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