Dhaka (Bangladesh), January 1, 2026: A disturbing incident has once again highlighted rising communal tensions in Bangladesh after a Hindu trader was brutally assaulted and set on fire by unidentified attackers in Shariatpur district. The victim, identified as 50-year-old Khokan Chandra Das, is currently battling for his life after sustaining serious injuries.
According to local sources, the incident took place late Wednesday night in the Kadamya area under the jurisdiction of the Damudya police station. Khokan Chandra Das, who runs a grocery and mobile banking business in Keraniganj market, was returning home on his motorcycle after closing his shop around 9:30 pm when he was intercepted near the Damudya–Shariatpur road.
The attackers allegedly stopped him, assaulted him severely with rods and sharp weapons, and later poured petrol on him in an attempt to burn him alive. As panic spread in the area, the assailants fled the spot. In an effort to save his life, the injured trader reportedly jumped into a nearby pond.
Local residents rushed to the scene after hearing cries for help and immediately took him to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital around 10 pm. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later referred to Dhaka for advanced medical treatment.
Doctors at Shariatpur Sadar Hospital said Khokan Chandra Das sustained multiple injuries across his body, including serious wounds to his mouth, head, and hands, along with burn marks on several parts. His condition remains critical.
The victim’s wife, Seema Das, stated that her husband had no known disputes with anyone and that the family cannot understand why such a brutal attack was carried out. She alleged that the attackers attempted to kill him after he identified two of them, which prompted the act of setting him on fire.
Damudya police station officer-in-charge Mohammad Khwaja Haque confirmed that police reached the spot immediately after receiving information. He said preliminary investigation has led to the identification of two suspects, both local residents, and efforts are underway to arrest them. Authorities are also probing whether more individuals were involved in the attack.
The incident has sparked fear and outrage among minority communities in the region, with demands growing for swift arrests and strict action against those responsible.
