A four-month pregnant woman has died following alleged torture by her husband in Chatmohar upazila, Pabna. Police have detained the husband, Sabuj Mondal, for questioning.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning in Katajola village, under Failjana Union.
The deceased, Manisha Mondal, 31, was the daughter of Upen Sarkar. She had been married to Sabuj Mondal, 35, for approximately eight years.
According to family members, Manisha recently returned from Dhaka, where she worked as a domestic helper. Relatives allege that Sabuj brought her back to their village and physically abused her while intoxicated. They claim the abuse included a kick to the stomach that caused severe internal bleeding. Shockingly, relatives further alleged that the torture was broadcast to them via video call.
The victim was reportedly confined to a room for five days without medical attention as her condition worsened. She died around 11:30 AM on Wednesday while being transported to Pabna for treatment. Hospital doctors declared her dead on arrival.
Manisha’s father, Upen Sarkar, claimed the family was kept in the dark and barred from seeing her during her final days.
However, the accused’s family has denied the allegations of torture. Subal Mondal, the suspect's father, claimed Manisha had moved to Dhaka following marital disputes and that Sabuj only brought her back when she encountered trouble there. He further alleged that Manisha had self-administered abortion medication, leading to complications, and claimed to possess medical records to support this.
Chatmohar Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Golam Sarwar Hossain stated that Sabuj Mondal is currently in custody. "We are investigating the matter, and legal action will be taken upon receiving a formal complaint," the OC said. The body has been sent to the Pabna General Hospital morgue for an autopsy.
