Two More Hindus Killed in Bangladesh; Six Lynched in 18 Days Amid Rising Violence Against Minorities

Bangladesh has witnessed a sharp escalation in mob violence and civil unrest over the past three weeks, with religious minorities—particularly the Hindu community—bearing the brunt of the attacks. In the latest incidents, two Hindu men were brutally killed within 24 hours, raising the total death toll of Hindu minorities to six in just 18 days.

The renewed wave of violence has intensified concerns over the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the country and the safety of minority communities.

Two Killings in One Day

On Monday night, Sarat Chakraborty Mani, a Hindu grocery shop owner, was attacked by a mob in a market area of Narsingdi. He succumbed to his injuries while being taken to hospital. Mani had recently returned to Bangladesh after working in South Korea for several years.

On the same day, Rana Pratap Bairagi, a 45-year-old Hindu journalist and factory owner, was murdered in Manirampur, Jashore district. Bairagi, who also served as Executive Editor of BD Khabor, was shot in the head and had his throat slit. According to police, the assailants arrived on motorcycles, lured him out of his factory, and carried out the killing in a targeted attack.

Pattern of Brutal Attacks

The current cycle of violence began following the killing of youth leader Usman Hadi on December 18. Soon after, Deepu Chandra Das, a Hindu garment factory worker in Mymensingh, was lynched by a mob over allegations of blasphemy. His body was later hung from a tree and set on fire—an incident that shocked the nation.

In subsequent days, Khokan Das, a 50-year-old Hindu pharmacist, was attacked while returning home after closing his shop. He later died in hospital due to severe injuries. Last week, another Hindu garment worker, Bajendra Biswas, was shot dead while on his way to work in Mymensingh.

Violence Against Women

Disturbing reports of sexual violence against Hindu women have also emerged. In Jhenaidah district, a 40-year-old Hindu widow was allegedly raped, tied to a tree, and had her hair forcibly cut. The victim is currently undergoing treatment in hospital. Rights groups say such incidents reflect a climate of fear and impunity for attackers.

International Concern Grows

The surge in attacks on minorities has drawn global attention. India and several other countries have expressed deep concern over the violence and urged Bangladesh’s interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to ensure the safety and equal protection of all citizens, irrespective of religion.

Human rights observers warn that unless swift and decisive action is taken, the ongoing unrest could further destabilize the country and deepen communal divisions.