Two schoolboys were physically assaulted allegedly by a local leader of Gono Odhikar Parishad over collecting mangoes at Kaunia village in Dashmina upazila of Patuakhali district on Friday.

The victims were Ashique Molla, 10, a class V student of Dashmina Pilot School and Zubayer Molla, 8, class II student of Dashmina Public School.

Of the injured, one is  undergoing treatment at Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital in Barishal.

Witnesses said Imam Molla, 55, president of the ward unit Gono Odhikar Parishad, caught Ashique and Zubayer while they were collecting fallen mangoes under the tree in the evening.

Later, he beat them up mercilessly, leaving them injured.

Later, Imam kept them confined to a shop.

After being informed from local people, the family members of the two children rushed in and took them to Dashmia Upazila Health Complex.

Monir Hossain, father of Ashique said, “I cannot believe that a 55-year-old man can beat children so brutally over something as small as a mango. I demand justice.”

Zubayer’s father, Julhas Molla, also expressed anger, saying, “If justice is not ensured for the abuse of my children, then we are not safe.”

Officer-in-Charge of Dashmina Police Station (Investigation) Imam Mehdi said no written complaint had yet been received.

“If a complaint is lodged legal action will be taken after investigation,” he added.