A Hindu family in southern Bangladesh woke up to a nightmare when their homes were set on fire in what is suspected to be a targeted attack on minorities, once again raising concerns over the safety of religious minorities in the country.
The incident took place in Dumritala village of Pirojpur district, around 240 km from the capital Dhaka, in the early hours of December 28. At least five houses belonging to members of the Saha family were gutted by fire. Family members alleged that they were trapped inside as the doors had been locked from outside while the flames spread rapidly.
According to the victims, all eight members of two families managed to escape by cutting through tin sheets and bamboo fencing. While no human casualties were reported, their homes and belongings were completely reduced to ashes. Pets kept inside the houses were killed in the blaze.
Local authorities said the exact cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed. However, reports suggest that attackers may have stuffed cloth into one of the rooms and set it on fire, causing the flames to engulf multiple houses. Police have launched an investigation, and the Superintendent of Police of Pirojpur visited the site to assure the family of prompt action.
So far, five suspects have been arrested, and efforts are underway to nab others involved. A video of the incident, showing villagers attempting to douse the flames, has gone viral on social media.
The attack comes amid growing concern over rising violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. According to a report by the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities, at least 71 incidents linked to blasphemy allegations against Hindus were reported between June and December this year across more than 30 districts.
Rights groups warn that such incidents point to systemic vulnerability rather than isolated events, as political instability and rising religious extremism continue to fuel fear among minority communities.
