It is shocking to look at pictures of a father writhing in pain after both his legs had to undergo amputation after being assaulted by a bunch of men who was harassing his daughters. 

According to family members, the prime accused belongs to a front organisation of the ruling party. Kamal Hossain and the other six accused in the case had the audacity to threaten Shahanur Alam for putting up a protest against their harassment of his daughters. The only reason why he survived the murderous attack is because local people came to his rescue as he was presumed dead by the gang.

As the incident is now registered with the police, a defamation campaign is underway to cast aspersions on the victims. Given that the gang has alleged political affiliation, family members of the victim are fearful of retribution and it is they who have gone into hiding for safety. What is this country coming to? Stalking is becoming an epidemic that has taken the lives of countless people, victims or those who protested the stalking. There is of course a social angle to it where morals and values are on the decay. However, we cannot turn the other eye on repeated examples of such incidents occurring where the powerful elements in society get away with such  barbarous behaviour, especially where the law is slow to react. Stalking is encouraged by lack of action against potential stalkers and therein lies the challenge. We demand tough action by the law enforcers and a zero tolerance from the process against such acts of sexual harassment. Impunity enjoyed by those connected to power must also be eliminated.