Imam Detained Over Alleged Abduction of Seventh-Grade Pupil

In Noakhali’s Hatia region, local residents have apprehended an imam from a mosque following allegations that he had taken a seventh-grade pupil with him without her consent. The incident has provoked widespread outrage in the community, with the family of the girl demanding exemplary legal action against the alleged offender.

On Monday, 5 January, the young girl was safely returned to her family by local residents. According to reports, the imam in question, Maulana Abdul Karim, 35, serves as the imam of the mosque and madrasa located at the head of Sonadia Chourarasta Market. He is also the son of Mahmud Haque, a resident of Ward 7 of the municipality. The girl is a student in the seventh grade at a local madrasa.

Sources say that the pupil had gone missing several days earlier. After extensive searching by her family, it emerged that she had been taken by the local imam. Upon learning of his location in Chattogram, her relatives managed to intercept and bring both the girl and the imam back to the area. On Sunday afternoon, as they arrived by river at Char Chenga Market, a crowd of over a thousand local residents surrounded them. To ensure their safety, a few community members escorted them to the residence of Abdul Mannan, Secretary of the local Market Committee.

Mannan stated, “Since the girl is underage, all matters concerning her must be handled by her guardians. The police have been informed of the incident.”

The girl’s father, speaking in a choked voice, said, “My daughter is still a minor. She was misled and taken away under false pretences. We never expected such conduct from someone entrusted with religious responsibility. I demand her safety and full justice for this incident.”

Meanwhile, Maulana Abdul Karim defended himself, claiming, “I have a consensual relationship with her. I did not take her by force. Nevertheless, I have been subjected to abuse by the people around us.”

Police officials have confirmed that several residents notified them via mobile messages, but no formal written complaint has yet been filed. Khorshed Alam, Officer-in-Charge of Jahajmara Police Outpost, said, “The girl’s father has been advised to submit a formal complaint. Once received, appropriate action will be taken.”

Key Details :

The case has sparked a significant social debate about the responsibilities of religious leaders and the protection of minors in the community. Local residents and the family alike are calling for swift and stringent action to ensure justice is served.