Hindu Temple Vandalized by Muslim Jihadi Mob [Gaibandha, Bangladesh]

(Reported as seen)

In a distressing incident reported from the Gaibandha district of Bangladesh, a Hindu temple was attacked, and the Murti (idol) inside it was vandalized by a Muslim mob.

The incident occurred on the night of April 17 in the Palashbari area of Gaibandha district. According to local Hindus, the Puja (worship) of Basanti Mata was underway in the temple, with religious songs being played on loudspeakers. However, some Islamists objected to the loud music and threatened to stop the proceedings. Despite the objections, the local Hindus refused to comply with their demands.

Subsequently, the Islamists allegedly made announcements from the loudspeakers of a nearby mosque, calling upon local Muslim residents to gather in front of the mosque. Within a short span, a mob of Muslim individuals assembled and launched an attack on the Hindu temple.

During the attack, the mob vandalized the Murti and other sacred items inside the temple. Additionally, they assaulted some local Hindus present on the temple premises, causing panic among the community, leading many to flee the scene.

As of now, no formal complaint has been lodged with the authorities, as the local Hindu minority community is reportedly terrified and hesitant to come forward due to fear of further reprisals.

The incident underscores the vulnerability of Hindu temples and the safety concerns faced by religious minorities in Muslim-majority Bangladesh. The lack of recourse to justice for such attacks raises serious questions about the protection of minority rights and religious freedom in the country.