A prominent Hindu community leader, Bhabesh Chandra Roy, was allegedly abducted and brutally murdered in Dinajpur district, Bangladesh, in a chilling incident that has raised concerns over the safety of minorities in the country. The 58-year-old, who was a respected member of the Hindu community, was taken from his home by assailants on motorcycles and later found dead after a violent beating. His death has sparked outrage and highlighted ongoing attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh.
Abduction and Brutal Murder
Bhabesh Chandra Roy, vice-president of the Biral unit of the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, was reportedly abducted from his home in Basudebpur village on the afternoon of the incident. According to his wife, Shantana Roy, he received a phone call around 4:30 pm, which confirmed his presence at home. Shortly after, four men arrived on motorcycles, abducted him, and took him to Narabari village. Witnesses claim to have seen the assailants violently beat him before abandoning his unconscious body, which was later transported back to his home in a van.
Roy’s family, with the help of locals, rushed him to a nearby health complex, where he was transferred to Dinajpur Medical College Hospital. Despite doctors’ best efforts, Roy was declared dead upon arrival. His body was sent for an autopsy, and local police are investigating the crime. Shantana Roy, who identified two of the attackers, has expressed her shock and grief over the murder.
Ongoing Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh
The murder of Bhabesh Roy is part of a disturbing trend of attacks on the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Just a month ago, a report by the Dhaka-based human rights organization Ain O Salish Kendra (AsK) highlighted 147 incidents of violence against Hindus, including attacks on homes, temples, and businesses. These incidents included vandalism, arson, and idol destruction, with reports of around 408 households being affected.
Such incidents have become more frequent, especially following the fall of the Awami League government in Bangladesh. Hindu-owned businesses, homes, and places of worship continue to be targeted by violent groups, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. India has consistently raised concerns about the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the issue in recent diplomatic talks with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
The tragic killing of Bhabesh Chandra Roy serves as a stark reminder of the rising dangers faced by the Hindu community in Bangladesh and the need for urgent action to ensure their safety and protection.
