A shocking incident of violence against a minority community has once again raised serious concerns in Bangladesh. A Hindu businessman was attacked in Bangladesh, brutally assaulted with sharp weapons and then set on fire by unidentified miscreants in the Damudya area of Shariatpur district. The attack has intensified fears among minority communities amid the country’s ongoing political turmoil.
According to a detailed report by Prothom Alo, the victim, Khokon Chandra Das (50), narrowly survived the deadly assault and is currently undergoing advanced medical treatment in Dhaka.
Incident Occurred Days After Other Hindu Killings
The Hindu businessman attacked in Bangladesh comes just days after the reported killings of Dipu Chandra Das and Bajendra Biswas, both members of the Hindu minority community. These repeated incidents have triggered alarm over the safety of minorities during a period of unrest following recent political developments.
Bangladesh has been witnessing instability since the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled the country after months of student-led protests in July–August 2024.
Where and When Did the Attack Take Place?
The incident occurred at around 9:30 PM on Wednesday near Keurbhanga Bazar, located in Kaneshwar Union under Damudya upazila.
Khokon Chandra Das, a local Hindu businessman, was returning home after closing his shop when the attackers struck.
Who Is Khokon Chandra Das?
According to police sources quoted by Prothom Alo:
* Khokon Chandra Das is a resident of Tilai village, Ward No. 3, Kaneshwar Union
* He runs a medicine shop and mobile banking business at Keurbhanga Bazar
* He routinely returned home at night carrying the day’s sales proceeds
His daily routine reportedly made him a target for the attackers.
How the Hindu Businessman Was Attacked in Bangladesh
While returning home in a CNG-powered autorickshaw, Das was intercepted on the Damudya–Shariatpur road. The assailants stopped the vehicle and dragged him out before launching a brutal attack.
Sequence of the Attack:
* The attackers assaulted Das with sharp weapons
* He sustained multiple injuries across his body
* Petrol was poured on his head and upper body
* He was then set on fire
In a desperate attempt to save his life, Das jumped into a nearby pond, which helped extinguish the flames.
Locals Rescue Victim, Attackers Flee
As locals heard his screams and rushed to the spot, the attackers fled the scene. Das was rescued and rushed to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital around 10 PM.
Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later referred to Dhaka for advanced medical care.
Doctor Confirms Serious Injuries
Dr Nazrul Islam, a doctor at Shariatpur Sadar Hospital, confirmed the extent of injuries suffered by the Hindu businessman attacked in Bangladesh.
“The patient has injury marks on various parts of his body. One injury to the stomach is serious. He also has burn injuries on his face, the back of his head, and his hands. He has been referred to Dhaka for advanced treatment,” the doctor said.
Victim’s Wife Speaks Out
Khokon Chandra Das’s wife, Seema Das, believes the attackers tried to kill her husband after he recognized some of them.
“My husband recognized two attackers. That is why they tried to kill him by hacking him and setting him on fire. We have no disputes with anyone. We don’t understand why terrorists targeted him,” she told Prothom Alo.
Her statement further deepens concerns over targeted attacks against Hindu businessmen in Bangladesh.
Police Investigation Underway
Police have launched an investigation into the attack. Authorities have reportedly identified two suspects, and efforts are underway to arrest them.
Damudya Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Rabiul Haque stated:
“We received information about a terrorist attack on a businessman. Two attackers have been identified, and efforts are ongoing to arrest them and identify others involved.”
Rising Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh
The Hindu businessman attacked in Bangladesh highlights a disturbing trend of violence against minorities amid political uncertainty. Rights activists have expressed concern over the safety of Hindu communities, especially in rural regions.
Political Crisis and Minority Safety
Bangladesh’s current political instability has created an atmosphere of fear, particularly among religious minorities. The absence of stable governance and rising lawlessness have left many Hindu families feeling unsafe.
Observers warn that unless swift action is taken, such incidents could escalate further.
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