3 men including bus driver & helper arrested over attempted rape on moving bus in Ashulia
In a Nutshell:
- Police arrested bus driver Md Imran, helper Md Mushfiqur Rahman Joni, and Md Sumon Pramanik over the alleged attack.
- Police said the incident happened after the woman and her companion boarded a Savar Paribahan bus from Gabtoli for Nabinagar.
- Police intercepted the bus at Rarapara bus stand and rescued the woman after receiving a 999 emergency call.
Why it Matters
For many women in Bangladesh, commuting on public transport already comes with the fear of harassment, unwanted attention, or worse. This case is one of many where women have been at the receiving end of sexual violence on buses, but unlike many others, it is being reported in the media. All citizens, including women, should have the right to access public spaces without fear of danger. The Finance Minister recently announced plans for women-only pink buses to make transport safer, but those services remain a far-off reality. When will women be able to travel safely on the buses that already exist?
Who it matters to
Women should not have to wait for separate buses, change routines, or limit their movement to feel safe while using transport meant for everyone. When women face sexual violence, public debate often shifts toward what victims could have done differently. But no amount of precaution can guarantee safety from someone intent on causing harm. This case shows that even having a male companion did not stop the alleged attackers. Authorities need better systems to protect women instead of placing the burden of safety on them.
