Severe tension has erupted in Bonatara village of Shankarpur Union No. 8 in Bangladesh of Dinajpur Sadar Upazila following allegations of religious defamation against a young man named Sabuj Das. On April 3, 2025, a group identifying themselves as the “Touhidi Janata” warned that if the accused was not arrested within a specified time, they would shut down Hindu-owned businesses in the area and even destroy shops that remained open.
This incident has sparked fear among the local Hindu community. They claim they had no involvement in any religious defamation, yet they are being directly threatened. Human rights activists believe this type of incitement in the name of religious sentiment is a clear prelude to communal violence.
If Sabuj Das is indeed guilty of making defamatory remarks against any religion, legal action should be taken against him based on proper evidence and investigation. However, serious concerns have arisen after the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the local police station himself participated in a protest organized by the Touhidi Janata, thereby violating his oath of neutrality and professional duty.
According to locals, the threats and intimidation directed at the entire Hindu community using Sabuj Das as a pretext reflect the broader pattern of ongoing oppression against minorities in Bangladesh.
Let the global conscience awaken to resist the persecution of Hindus and other religious minorities in Bangladesh — this is the call from concerned citizens.
Local human rights organizations have demanded an impartial investigation and effective action from the authorities regarding this incident.