Hacked and set on fire, another Hindu man dies after brutal attack in Bangladesh

A Hindu businessman in Bangladesh, Khokon Chandra Das, died in a Dhaka hospital on Friday after being brutally attacked, hacked with sharp weapons and set on fire while returning home from work, according to his family. The incident has triggered fresh concerns over violence against minorities in the country.

Das, around 50, ran a small medicine shop and mobile banking business in his village, located nearly 150 kilometres from Dhaka. He was attacked on Wednesday night after closing his shop and heading home. The assailants intercepted his autorickshaw, dragged him out and assaulted him before pouring petrol on his head and setting him on fire.

In a desperate attempt to survive, Das jumped into a nearby pond, which helped extinguish the flames. Locals rushed to the spot after hearing screams and took him to a nearby hospital, from where he was referred to Dhaka as his condition worsened. He suffered multiple injuries, including deep wounds from sharp weapons and severe burns to his face, head and hands.

His wife, Seema Das, said the family could not understand why he was targeted, claiming there was no prior dispute or enmity. She stated that her husband recognised two of the attackers, after which they allegedly tried to kill him to silence him.

Police have registered a case and named two suspects, while efforts are underway to arrest those involved. The killing adds to a series of recent violent incidents involving members of the Hindu minority, intensifying scrutiny of the law and order situation and the safety of minorities in Bangladesh.