Introduction

In the early hours of Tuesday, July 1st, 2025, a heinous act of violence shocked the residents of a quiet village in southeastern Bangladesh. A woman named Khodeza Begum, aged 46, was the victim of a brutal attempted murder in her own home, located in Jhikadda village of Gunabati Union, under the Chauddagram upazila in Comilla district.

According to local sources and law enforcement, the attacker—Md. Shaheen, a 38-year-old house painter and resident of the same village—entered the victim's house in the dead of night and slit her throat in an attempt to kill her. The motive behind the attack is currently under investigation.

The Attack

At approximately 2:30 AM, Khodeza Begum was at home when she was suddenly ambushed by the accused. Without provocation or warning, Shaheen attacked her with a sharp knife, targeting her neck in an apparent attempt to murder her by slitting her throat.

Hearing her screams and struggle, neighbors rushed to the scene and immediately informed the police. Upon arrival, the police found Khodeza critically injured but still alive. They administered first aid and rushed her to Comilla Medical College Hospital, from where she was later referred to a hospital in Dhaka due to the severity of her injuries.

Local doctors described her condition as "extremely critical but stable under emergency care."

Suspect Apprehended

Thanks to the prompt response from the Chauddagram Police, Md. Shaheen was apprehended at the scene of the crime. He did not resist arrest, and initial reports suggest a possible prior dispute or premeditated intent. Authorities are currently interrogating the accused for further details and to uncover any accomplices or underlying motives.

According to Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Hilal Uddin Ahmed, "We are taking this case with the utmost seriousness. The accused is in custody, and we are collecting all relevant evidence to ensure justice is served."

Community Reaction

The attack has sparked widespread outrage across Comilla and social media platforms, with many calling for swift justice and increased protections for women in rural areas. Local residents gathered outside the police station and hospital demanding transparency in the investigation and maximum punishment for the accused.

Human rights organizations have also condemned the attack. Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, a prominent women's rights group, released a statement:

"This barbaric act highlights the alarming vulnerability of women in their own homes. Justice must not only be swift—it must be exemplary."

Context: Violence Against Women in Bangladesh

This incident adds to a growing list of violent crimes against women in Bangladesh, particularly in rural and underserved areas. According to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), over 1,200 incidents of violence against women were reported in the first half of 2025 alone, with a significant portion involving domestic or community-based perpetrators.

Despite legal reforms and national helplines, implementation remains inconsistent. Advocates are urging for community policing, awareness campaigns, and proper training of law enforcement in gender-sensitive handling of such cases.

Call to Action

This case underscores the urgent need for:

• Stronger legal enforcement and expedited trial procedures for crimes against women
• Community-based prevention programs in rural Bangladesh
• Psychosocial and legal support for victims and their families
• Accountability mechanisms for police and judicial processes

As Khodeza Begum continues to fight for her life, activists and citizens alike wait anxiously for justice to be delivered swiftly and decisively.

Conclusion

The attempted murder of Khodeza Begum is not an isolated crime—it is a reflection of a broader crisis of gender-based violence in Bangladesh. This is not just a national issue—it is a human rights issue that demands international attention and solidarity.

As the investigation unfolds, the eyes of a nation—and perhaps the world—remain fixed on Jhikadda village, awaiting answers, justice, and hope.

For further information or interviews, contact:
Chauddagram Police Station
Comilla District, Bangladesh
Officer-in-Charge (OC), Chauddagram Police Station: 01713-373686