Several individuals were assaulted near Shahbagh in Dhaka on Friday evening after being labeled “homosexual” by a group identifying itself as “Azadi Andolon.” Those attacked stated that they had not provoked the incident and reported that women in the group were also subjected to sexual harassment.
The incident occurred around 8:00 PM near the National Museum gate. Witness accounts and video footage shared on social media show a group approaching individuals in the area, surrounding them, and physically assaulting them. Victims said the attackers were chanting slogans targeting homosexual and transgender people.
According to victims, the group had earlier organized a rally in Shahbagh calling for the removal of what they described as “homosexual programs.” One victim stated that while they were sitting at a roadside tea stall, the group surrounded them and began harassing women, including inappropriate physical contact. When they attempted to leave, the attackers reportedly began beating them, including targeting their heads.
Victims also reported that a transgender person present at the scene was physically assaulted. Another individual stated that he had been visiting the Dhaka University area when the group began attacking people indiscriminately, including kicking and beating those present.
Police said they are gathering information about the incident and advised victims to seek medical care. As of Friday night, no case had been filed, and authorities stated that the matter is under review.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
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