Are Arson Attacks and Killings Targeting Hindus in Bangladesh Escalating?
Synopsis
The Rights & Risks Analysis Group has reported alarming claims of arson attacks on Hindu homes in Bangladesh, with 16 properties set ablaze and 17 individuals killed since late 2025. The situation raises serious questions about minority rights and safety in the country amidst ongoing political tensions.
Key Takeaways
16 Hindu homes were reportedly set on fire in recent weeks.
17 Hindus have been killed since December 1, 2025.
The violence is allegedly linked to election-related unrest.
Bangladeshi authorities deny religious motives behind the attacks.
Advocacy for minority rights is crucial in addressing these issues.
New Delhi, Jan 30 (NationPress) The Rights & Risks Analysis Group (RRAG), a rights organization based in New Delhi, has raised serious concerns regarding the alleged arson attacks on 16 homes of minority Hindus, with seven incidents occurring in the past week alone. Furthermore, the organization reported that at least 17 Hindus have been killed in Bangladesh since December 1, 2025.
In a recent report unveiled on Saturday, the RRAG accused that Hindu minorities are enduring focused violence, predominantly arson and murder, claimed to be linked to election-related unrest allegedly initiated by Islamist groups.
The document highlighted that properties, including residences, temples, and various assets owned by at least 16 Hindus, were set on fire in areas such as Mirsarai, Raozan, Pirojpur, and Sylhet from December 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026.
The affected Hindu families include Tapan Dhar, Amio Dhar, Kanu Nath, Ashok Dhar, Anup Dhar, and Mridul Saha from Mirsarai in Chittagong district; Sukh Shil, Anil Shil, Bimal Talukdar, Rubel Das, Sadhan Barua, Sona Pal, and Kamini Mohan Pal from Raozan; a person with the surname Saha in Pirojpur; and Bikash Ranjan Deb in Sylhet.
Describing the alleged methods used, RRAG Director Suhas Chakma stated, “Fires were intentionally ignited in temples, residences, and haystacks. The doors of Hindu and Buddhist homes were locked from the outside prior to being set ablaze, intending to trap the occupants inside. The Chittagong area has seen the highest frequency of arson attacks, notably in Mirsarai and Raozan.”
Chakma further accused that at least 17 Hindu minorities were murdered in targeted assaults between December 1, 2025, and January 1, 2026.
“Previously, several murders were executed in a Taliban-like fashion by slitting throats, including those of Rana Pratap Bairagi, Shanto Chandra Das, Jogesh Chandra Roy, and Suborna Roy. Chanchal Chandra Bhowmik was reportedly killed after being set ablaze in his garage while he slept,” the RRAG Director remarked.
The RRAG also detailed the alleged murders of 17 minority Hindus since December 1, 2025. Chakma asserted that Bangladeshi officials, including Chief Adviser Mohammad Yunus, have consistently rejected any religious motives behind the attacks on Hindu minorities.
In September 2024, Yunus allegedly mentioned that there was a widespread belief that most Hindus backed the ousted Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, and that individuals associated with it had been targeted.
Additionally, on January 19, 2026, Yunus noted that between January and December 2025, around 645 incidents involving minority community members occurred, but “the vast majority of cases were criminal rather than communal.”
“This denial of any religious context by the authorities has empowered extremist factions. Out of fear of retaliation, victims frequently label targeted arson attacks as ‘accidents’ or ‘foul play,’ even when attempts to set them ablaze or leave them destitute are evident,” Chakma charged.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the grave issues facing minority communities in Bangladesh, especially in light of recent reports by RRAG. The alarming statistics of violence and property destruction underscore the urgent need for protective measures and a thorough investigation into the motives behind these attacks. Nationwide awareness and advocacy for minority rights are crucial in addressing this humanitarian crisis.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation for minority Hindus in Bangladesh?
The Rights & Risks Analysis Group has reported significant violence against minority Hindus, including arson attacks on homes and multiple murders since December 2025.
Who is responsible for the attacks on Hindus?
The RRAG alleges that Islamist groups are behind the targeted violence against Hindu communities in Bangladesh, especially in relation to election-related unrest.
What has the Bangladeshi government said about these incidents?
Bangladeshi authorities, including Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, have dismissed any religious motives behind the attacks, claiming they are primarily criminal.
How many Hindus have been killed in these incidents?
Since December 1, 2025, it has been reported that at least 17 Hindus have been killed in targeted assaults.
What can be done to protect minority communities in Bangladesh?
There is an urgent need for advocacy, protective measures, and a thorough investigation into the motives behind the attacks to ensure the safety of minority communities.
