Woman alleges molestation at metro’s reserved coach, probe launched

The authorities of Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) have launched an investigation into reports of molestation and harassment of women by male passengers aboard a Dhaka metro rail carriage reserved for women. 

Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) Managing Director Faruque Ahmed confirmed The Business Standard about the investigation today (6 March). 

"We could not retrieve the CCTV footage as we are still unaware about the specific station and place. However, we are still working to uncover the details of the incident," he said. 

A passenger named Nilufar Parveen Mitu shared the details of the incident on a public Facebook group called Bangladesh Metro Railway Information. 

According to her post, she boarded the train at Farmgate, and around 4:50pm on Wednesday (5 March), a group of 10-12 men entered the women-only carriage headed to Uttara North Station and harassed women, including a child.

In her post, she wrote, "Unfortunately, I was in that compartment with a journalist friend. The intense protests and screams alerted the women, overcoming their reluctance. They began telling the men to get off the train. The young man who abused the child got off after facing retaliation."

She also pointed out the lack of police presence inside the women's carriage.

DDMTCL Managing Director Faruque Ahmed said, "I don't have the full details of the incident, as the [woman's Facebook] post didn't specify at which station it occurred or where the complaint was made. If they contact me, I may be able to get more information about the incident. I have also talked with the DIG (Deputy Inspector General) of MRT Police regarding this."

The DMTCL managing director noted that men are prohibited from boarding women's compartments, and it is unfortunate that the rules were violated.

Faruque stated that, following this incident, he will instruct the police officers on duty to stand near the women's compartment.