Bangladesh minority man succumbs to injuries days after brutal mob assault

Khokon Chandra Das, a Hindu resident of Bangladesh who was brutally assaulted and set on fire by unidentified attackers, succumbed to his injuries on Saturday while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dhaka, family members reportedly confirmed.

Das, who operated a small pharmacy and mobile banking outlet in his village around 150 km from the capital, was attacked on Wednesday night while returning home after shutting his shop. According to local accounts, he was assaulted with sharp weapons and then set ablaze. In a desperate attempt to save himself, Das jumped into a nearby pond, which helped extinguish the fire. The assailants fled the scene soon after.

He was initially taken to a local hospital before being referred to a larger medical facility in Dhaka due to the severity of his injuries.

Speaking earlier, Das’ wife Seema Das told media that the family was unable to understand the motive behind the attack, insisting that they had no disputes or known enemies in the area. “

Seema Das alleged that the attackers were Muslims and said her husband had recognised two of them before being set on fire. She appealed to the police and the Bangladesh government to ensure justice and protection for her family.

The killing adds to a growing list of attacks on members of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh, with several incidents reportedly linked to religious identity. The country has witnessed rising violence against minorities under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, drawing concern from human rights organisations worldwide.

India has repeatedly expressed serious concern over continued hostility towards minorities in Bangladesh, stating that it is closely monitoring developments in the neighbouring country. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh government has reiterated that it remains committed to safeguarding minority communities.