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| AI PHOTO |
Dhaka: Violence against the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh continues, with several shocking incidents reported in recent days. In Jessore district, a Hindu journalist and businessman was shot dead, while in Jhenaidah district, a Hindu widow was allegedly gang-raped, tied to a tree, had her hair forcibly cut, and was tortured over a land dispute.
In the Manirampur sub-district of Jessore district, around 6 pm on Monday, 45-year-old Rana Pratap Bairagi, a Hindu resident, was shot dead by unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants in Kopalia Bazar area. Bairagi was the acting editor of the local daily 'BD Khobor' and owned an ice factory. Reports indicate he was lured out and shot multiple times in the head; some accounts mention his throat was also slit. Police are investigating, with preliminary information suggesting personal disputes or possible links to past cases. However, rights activists express concern that this killing is part of a broader pattern of violence targeting minorities.
On the same day, in Kaliganj sub-district of Jhenaidah district, a 40-year-old Hindu widow was allegedly subjected to brutal assault over a property dispute. According to her complaint to police, she had purchased land and a house from a man named Shahin. However, Shahin and his associate Hasan continued to harass her. On Saturday evening, the two men allegedly entered her home, gang-raped her, and demanded 50,000 Taka. When she refused, they tied her to a tree, cut her hair, filmed the act, and circulated the video on social media. The victim suffered severe physical and mental trauma, losing consciousness. Locals rescued her and admitted her to Jhenaidah Sadar Hospital. Police have arrested both accused and are continuing the investigation.
These incidents come amid heightened concerns over minority safety as Bangladesh approaches general elections on February 12. In recent weeks, several Hindus, including Khokon Chandra Das, Amrit Mondal, and Dipu Chandra Das, have been killed in separate attacks. Human rights organizations and minority leaders have voiced alarm, drawing international attention. While the Bangladesh government claims commitment to protecting minorities, the persistence of such violence remains a cause for serious concern.
The incidents have created an atmosphere of fear within the minority community. There are growing demands for swift police action and strict punishment for the perpetrators.
