Bangladesh Violence: False Blasphemy Charges Fuel Attacks, Murders, and Land Grabs Against Hindus in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, the minority Hindu community is facing an alarming surge in attacks, murders, and land grabbing, often perpetrated under the guise of false blasphemy accusations. This disturbing trend has been brought to light by a sensational report from the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM), a prominent human rights organization within the country. The report expresses grave concern over the increasing frequency of such baseless allegations, which have become a potent tool for persecuting minorities, seizing their property, and even taking their lives.

This situation raises serious questions about the rule of law and the protection of minority rights in Bangladesh. The recent barbaric murder of 27-year-old Hindu Deepu Chandra Das on December 18 in the Bhaluka sub-district of Mymensingh district has once again thrust this critical issue into the spotlight. Deepu Chandra Das, an employee at a garment factory, was accused of blasphemy by his co-workers. Following the accusation, he was dragged out of the factory. By an agitated mob, who then brutally beat him to death. The savagery didn't end there; his body was subsequently hung from a tree and set on fire. Investigations into the incident have revealed that there was no concrete evidence to support the blasphemy charges leveled against Deepu, yet this heinous crime was committed.

This incident has sparked profound concern regarding the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh. The interim government has responded by arresting 12 individuals in connection with the case and has announced its intention to refer the matter to a fast-track court to ensure swift justice for the perpetrators.

Escalation of False Blasphemy Cases

The statistics presented in the HRCBM report are deeply troubling. According to the report, a staggering 73 false blasphemy-related cases were registered across. 32 districts of Bangladesh within a mere six-month period, from June to December 2025. In all these instances, Hindu minorities were the primary targets, while these incidents encompass not only physical assaults and lynchings but also widespread instances of illegal occupation of minority properties.

The organization explicitly states in its report that in many cases, the accusation of blasphemy serves merely as a pretext to conceal underlying motives such as personal enmity, property disputes, or other individual grievances, while the report meticulously details each incident, providing crucial information such as the names of the victims, the location of the incident, and the date it occurred. Deepu Das's recent murder is also included in this latest. Report, underscoring the ongoing and persistent nature of this grave problem.

Rise of Extremist Forces Post-Sheikh Hasina Government

Human rights organizations believe that extremist forces have become Notably more active following the political transition in Bangladesh, particularly after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. This period of political instability has directly impacted the security of minority communities, deepening their vulnerability. The report indicates that in the first half of 2025 alone, 258 communal attacks were recorded, including 27 murders and numerous assaults on temples. These figures demonstrate a dangerous escalation in the level of communal violence within the country.

HRCBM has issued a stark warning that if immediate and stringent action isn't taken to address these cases, the climate of fear among minority communities will intensify further, potentially leading to increased displacement. The international community has also condemned these attacks, with India expressing serious concern and urging the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety of minorities. Amnesty International has called for immediate and impartial investigations and justice for the victims.

Interim Government's Response Deemed Insufficient

While the interim government of Bangladesh has condemned these violent incidents and made some arrests, human rights organizations have largely deemed these actions insufficient, while they argue that mere condemnation and a few arrests don't constitute a lasting solution to the systemic problem. Experts contend that there is an urgent need for stricter laws to prevent the misuse of false accusations and to foster greater awareness within society. This is crucial to ensure that all citizens of Bangladesh, especially minorities, can live. With dignity and without fear, thereby upholding the principles of justice and equality for all.