Report Details Escalating Violence Against Hindu Minority in Bangladesh

Increased Targeted Violence Against Hindu Community Reported

A new report released by the Rights & Risks Analysis Group (RRAG), a New Delhi-based human rights organization, indicates a concerning surge in targeted violence against the Hindu minority community in Bangladesh. The report, covering the period from December 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, details incidents of arson and murder, primarily attributed to Islamist groups.

According to the RRAG's findings, at least 16 houses, temples, and other assets belonging to Hindus were set on fire across various districts. Seven of these arson attacks reportedly occurred in the last week of January 2026 alone. The report also states that at least 17 Hindu individuals were killed during this two-month period.

Details of Attacks and Modus Operandi

The violence has been concentrated in areas such as Mirsarai and Raozan within the Chittagong district, as well as Pirojpur and Sylhet. The RRAG report describes a disturbing modus operandi, where fires were deliberately set on temples, residential homes, and haystacks. In some instances, the doors of Hindu and Buddhist homes were allegedly locked from the outside before being set ablaze, suggesting an intent to trap occupants.

Among the documented fatalities, some murders were reportedly carried out in a 'Taliban-style' manner, involving throat slitting. Victims mentioned in the report include Rana Pratap Bairagi, Shanto Chandra Das, Jogesh Chandra Roy, and Suborna Roy. Additionally, Chanchal Chandra Bhowmik was allegedly murdered after being set on fire in a garage. The attacks often targeted the victims' assets, such as auto-rickshaws.

Government Response and International Concerns

The Bangladeshi authorities, including Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, have reportedly dismissed any religious motivation behind these attacks, often characterizing them as criminal rather than communal incidents. However, Suhas Chakma, Director of the RRAG, has criticized this stance, suggesting that such denials may embolden fundamentalist elements.

The government of India has expressed its concern over the reports of violence. India expects the interim government of Bangladesh to conduct thorough investigations into these incidents and ensure that all perpetrators of killings, arson, and violence against minorities are brought to justice. India has also conveyed its view that attributing these attacks solely to personal rivalries or political differences, rather than communal motives, could further embolden extremists and deepen the insecurity felt by minority communities.

Broader Context of Minority Vulnerability

The recent wave of violence follows the ousting of the Sheikh Hasina government in August 2024, with reports indicating a rise in political and communal unrest since then. Human rights activists note that Hindus in Bangladesh are sometimes perceived as extensions of India, making them vulnerable targets during periods of heightened anti-India sentiment. The RRAG report underscores the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities in Bangladesh, calling for greater protection and accountability.