The United States has strongly condemned the lynching of a Bangladeshi Hindu man, describing the incident as “horrific” and reiterating its commitment to religious freedom and minority rights, as international concern grows over a series of violent attacks in Bangladesh.
The remarks followed the killing of 29-year-old garment worker Dipu Chandra Das, who was lynched by a mob in Bhaluka, Mymensingh, on December 18, allegedly over blasphemy accusations. His body was later set on fire, triggering outrage both domestically and abroad.
In response to questions from the Indo-Asian News Service (IANS) on December 28 in Washington, a spokesperson for the United States Department of State said the United States “unequivocally condemns religious violence in all its forms” and reaffirmed U.S. support for religious freedom, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. The spokesperson also said Washington welcomed steps announced by Bangladesh’s interim authorities to ensure the safety and security of all communities.
U.S. Congressman Ro Khanna also condemned the killing, urging global leaders to speak out firmly against what he described as “vile acts of hatred and bigotry.”
The Mymensingh lynching was followed by another killing days later. On December 25, Amrit Mondal, also 29, was beaten to death by locals in Rajbari district. While Bangladesh’s interim government condemned the act, it said initial assessments suggested the killing did not have a communal dimension.
The attacks have sparked protests in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Nepal, and India. In London, members of the Bengali Hindu Adarsha Sangha (BHAS) demonstrated outside the Bangladesh High Commission, demanding international attention and justice for minority communities.
In Nepal, protests were reported in cities including Birgunj, Janakpurdham, and Golbazar, where demonstrators temporarily blocked highways while chanting slogans calling for an end to violence against Hindus. Similar demonstrations were held in multiple Indian cities, including Delhi, Kolkata, Bhopal, and Hyderabad, led by Hindu organizations.
Reacting to the developments, India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed “grave concern” over what it described as “unremitting hostility against minorities” in Bangladesh. The ministry said, however, that it did not view the situation as a strain on bilateral relations, reaffirming India’s support for peace, stability, and inclusive democratic processes in Bangladesh.
The recent incidents have intensified international scrutiny of minority safety in Bangladesh during its political transition, placing renewed pressure on the authorities to ensure accountability, uphold the rule of law, and prevent further violence.
