Hindu Man Set on Fire in Bangladesh, Wife Seeks Answers

A Hindu man named Khokon Chandra Das was brutally attacked in Bangladesh on the night of March 15, 2024, as he returned home after closing his shop. The incident, which involved sharp weapons and arson, has left his family seeking answers to a violent act they claim was unprovoked.

His wife, Seema Das, expressed her disbelief over the attack, stating that they had no disputes with anyone in their village. “We have no dispute with anyone on any issue. We don’t understand why my husband was suddenly targeted,” she told NDTV. The couple, who are Hindus, have three children and desire to live peacefully in their community.

Details of the Attack

The attack occurred in a village located approximately 150 kilometers from the capital, Dhaka. According to Seema Das, her husband was assaulted by a group of attackers shortly after he closed his medicine and mobile banking shop. Two of the assailants were reportedly recognized by Khokon Das, who was subsequently doused with petrol and set on fire.

In a desperate bid to save himself, Khokon Das jumped into a nearby pond, which helped extinguish the flames. Local residents quickly transported him to a nearby hospital, but due to the severity of his injuries, he was later referred to Dhaka Medical College. Doctors informed the family that he had lost a significant amount of blood and required at least six units for stabilization.

Government Response and Community Concerns

The attack has raised alarm over rising violence against minority communities in Bangladesh. Reports indicate that incidents targeting Hindus have increased under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, a claim the administration has denied. In light of these occurrences, India expressed grave concern regarding what it described as “unremitting hostility” towards minorities in Bangladesh, emphasizing that it is closely monitoring the situation.

In response to international concerns, the Bangladesh government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting minority communities. Seema Das has called upon the government for assistance in ensuring justice for her husband, as the police work to apprehend the attackers.

The family’s plea highlights the ongoing struggle for safety and coexistence faced by minority groups in the region, amidst rising tensions and calls for greater protection from authorities.