Barishal Correspondent :
Following allegations of extortion and threats made by Shimu Begum, a resident of Darial Union in Bakerganj Upazila, during a press conference in Barishal on Saturday, the accused BNP activists allegedly carried out another attack and issued death threats on Sunday.
Local police have reportedly remained inactive and silent on the issue. On Monday afternoon, the victim, Shimu Begum, read out another written statement at a press conference held at the Barishal Reporters Unity Hall, reiterating her accusations against the attackers.
Her two daughters and two sons attended the event in support of her.
At the press conference, Shimu Begum said that around noon on November 2, a group led by Kamruzzaman Mizan, Member Secretary of Bakerganj Upazila BNP and former Chairman of Darial Union, along with Bazlu Hawlader, Shimu’s divorced husband, attacked her house in a procession.
“They came in front of my house, tried to beat me, and attempted to break the windows and doors. We hid inside in fear,” she said.
Shimu alleged that during the attack, the group, including Bazlu Hawlader, shouted obscene, false, and defamatory slogans against her.
She further claimed that the attackers tried to socially humiliate her by spreading malicious allegations of extramarital affairs, multiple marriages, and prostitution.
“They even distorted my photos and circulated them on social media so that locals would despise me and no one would support me,” she said.
The victim also added, “My name is being used to spread propaganda, claiming that I am involved in drug dealing.
Provocative posts calling for my arrest are also being shared online. As a result, my two daughters and I are living in constant fear.”
Shimu Begum alleged that this retaliatory attack and smear campaign were carried out because she revealed the truth at Saturday’s press conference.
She urged the administration to take immediate and effective action, demanding the arrest of BNP leaders Kamruzzaman Mizan Mia and Bazlu Hawlader, along with ensuring the safety of her and her family.
She also called for those spreading distorted images and defamatory propaganda to be brought under the Cyber Crime Act.
However, the victim stated, “I am not afraid. I want the truth to come out. The journalist community must awaken the conscience of the nation against this injustice.”
