A 23-year-old Hindu man was burned to death inside a garage in Bangladesh’s Narsingdi district, renewing concerns over rising attacks on minorities and prompting his family to allege that the killing was deliberate. The victim, identified as Chanchal Chandra Bhoumik, had been living and working in the area for several years.

Victim trapped inside garage as fire spread

The incident occurred late on Friday near the Mosque Market area close to the Narsingdi Police Lines. According to residents and local sources, Chanchal was asleep inside the garage when unidentified attackers poured petrol on the shutter from outside and set the premises alight. Footage shared online appears to show someone igniting the fire before flames rapidly engulf the shop.

Firefighters arrived after locals raised the alarm, and it took nearly an hour to bring the blaze under control. Once the flames were extinguished, crews found Chanchal’s charred remains inside. Witnesses said he was unable to escape and died after being trapped in the inferno for an extended period.

Family alleges premeditated killing

Chanchal, originally from Lakshmipur village in Cumilla district, was the middle son in his family and its only earner. His relatives have described the attack as a “planned murder” and are demanding immediate arrests and the harshest punishment for those responsible.

The killing has intensified fears among Hindu communities across Bangladesh, who say they already feel vulnerable after a series of violent attacks.

Recent similar attacks heighten community fears

The deaths of Hindu men in similar circumstances in recent months have deepened concern. On 31 December, Khokon Das, a 50-year-old medicine shop owner in Shariatpur district, was reportedly stabbed, beaten and set on fire by a mob as he made his way home. Earlier, garment worker Dipu Chandra Das was stripped, beaten to death and his body burned by a crowd.

These incidents have sparked political reactions beyond Bangladesh’s borders. In India, the West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party condemned the latest killing, describing it as part of an ongoing pattern of violence targeting Bengali Hindus.