Mob violence in Bangladesh: Hindu worker killed, body set on fire amid blasphemy allegations

In another incident of violence against minorities in Bangladesh, a Hindu man was lynched and his body set on fire in Mymensingh district following allegations of insulting Islam.

The incident occurred on Thursday night at the Pioneer Knit Composite Factory in Bhaluka upazila, where the man was employed. The violence led to panic in the area and briefly disrupted traffic on the Dhaka–Mymensingh highway.

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The victim has been identified as Dipu Chandra Das (30), a resident of Tarakanda upazila in Mymensingh district. He worked at the garment factory where the incident took place.

According to local media reports, tensions broke out after allegations emerged that Dipu had made remarks deemed derogatory to Islam and Prophet Muhammad during a programme held at the factory to mark World Arabic Language Day. The allegations spread rapidly within the factory and nearby localities, triggering unrest.

Mob attack reported after allegations spread

Citing local residents and eyewitnesses, Bengali daily Barta Bazar reported that Dipu was assaulted by a mob and died on the spot.

After his death, the situation reportedly escalated further. The crowd allegedly took the body to the Square Masterbari bus stand area, tied it to a tree, and continued to assault it while shouting slogans. The body was then set on fire. It was later taken to the Dhaka–Mymensingh highway and burned again, causing traffic disruption and fear among commuters.

Confirming the incident, Bhaluka Upazila Executive Officer Md Firoz Hossain said a person had been killed following allegations of insulting the Prophet. He added that the body is currently in police custody.

Officials have not yet shared details regarding arrests or further legal action. Security in the area has since been tightened.

Former Bangladesh minister and Awami League leader Mohammad Ali Arafat condemned the killing, stating that the country was moving towards increasing radicalisation under the interim government led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus.

The incident comes amid growing international concern over the safety of minorities in Bangladesh. Earlier this week, India’s Ministry of External Affairs summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, and conveyed New Delhi’s concerns over the worsening security situation in the country.

Attacks on minorities under scrutiny

Bangladesh has seen a rise in attacks on minority communities, including Hindus, during the tenure of the Yunus-led interim government. These incidents have drawn criticism from human rights organisations and renewed calls for stronger law enforcement measures.