Assam Man Accused of Torturing Stepson, Mother Alleges Police Inaction

A deeply troubling incident has emerged from Garal, near Dharapur on the outskirts of Guwahati, highlighting serious concerns regarding child safety and police inaction. A mother has come forward with allegations that her 3-year-and-4-month-old son has been subjected to continuous mental and physical abuse by her second husband, Shafikul Ahmed, whom the child regarded as a stepfather.

Shafikul Ahmed, originally from Sonari and part of the Bihari community, has been accused of inflicting severe abuse on the child since the mother, Syeda Mazida Begum, married him on July 24, 2023. Initially believing that Shafikul cared for her son, she soon noticed alarming signs of abuse, including physical violence and degrading language directed at the child.

In her statement, Syeda described the horrific treatment her son has endured, including beatings and biting, even in sensitive areas. She reported that her son lives in constant fear of his stepfather, who uses everyday objects to inflict harm. The child bears visible bite marks and scars, and Syeda claims he has also suffered sexual abuse, evidenced by disturbing physical signs.

The mother expressed her concern for her son's well-being, noting that he is underweight and struggles to eat due to fear. Shafikul's verbal abuse further compounds the trauma, as he frequently belittles the child, predicting a bleak future for him. The situation escalated when Syeda and her son faced threats from Shafikul, who allegedly attempted to choke the child to instill fear.

Despite filing a complaint at Azara Police Station, Syeda claims that the police have not taken adequate action. Reports indicate that the Sonari Police failed to cooperate with their counterparts in Azara, leaving the mother feeling unsupported. Additionally, she alleges that Shafikul siphoned off a significant amount of money from her.

The situation took a dangerous turn when Syeda attempted to locate Shafikul in Sonari, where he allegedly threatened her life. Currently, Shafikul Ahmed is absconding, and the Azara Police have yet to apprehend him, although the investigation is ongoing.

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