A shocking incident of violence against a Hindu businessman has gone viral on social media, sparking outrage and raising concerns about minority rights in Bangladesh. Ujjal Kumar Mondal, a 25-year-old vegetable vendor, was brutally beaten in front of his elderly parents and pregnant wife in Kalikapur village, Natore’s Baraigram upazila. The attack, allegedly orchestrated by activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its affiliated organizations, was reportedly due to Ujjal’s association with a local leader of the ruling Awami League.
The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon when Ujjal returned home briefly to arrange medical care for his pregnant wife. Reports suggest that BNP members, angered by Ujjal’s connections with Awami League leader Atikur Rahman, launched the assault upon learning of his return. The violent episode was captured on video and later shared by Atikur Rahman on Facebook, where it quickly went viral.
Details of the Attack
The 2-minute-55-second video shows a group of 7-8 men armed with sticks storming Ujjal’s house. The attackers, allegedly followers of BNP’s local leader ABM Iqbal Hossain, included Jalal Bhuiyan of the BNP labor wing and Jahangir Alam of the BNP youth wing. Ujjal’s elderly parents attempted to intervene but were pushed and beaten. His pregnant wife was also assaulted as she pleaded for mercy. Despite her desperate attempts, the attackers continued until Ujjal lost consciousness.
After the assault, the attackers reportedly informed the police, who arrived to take Ujjal to Baraigram Upazila Hospital for treatment. He was later detained under Section 151 of the Penal Code and presented before a Natore court, which granted him bail the following day.
Community Reaction and Allegations
The video sparked widespread condemnation on social media. Atikur Rahman, in his Facebook post, accused BNP-linked “terrorists” of targeting Ujjal simply because of his support for the Awami League. He also alleged that Ujjal’s family has been receiving repeated threats to leave the area.
While Ujjal and his family have refrained from speaking to the media, neighbors expressed their shock at the brutality, calling for justice. “It was a cruel and inhumane act. Such violence must not go unpunished,” said one neighbor, speaking on condition of anonymity.
BNP’s Response
ABM Iqbal Hossain, a joint convener of the Bonpara BNP, admitted to seeing the video and acknowledged that the attack was unjustified. “We have reprimanded those involved and warned them against such actions in the future,” he said.
Police Statement
Baraigram police officer-in-charge Sirajul Islam confirmed the incident and stated that Ujjal had been provided medical attention before being detained. He noted that Ujjal has since been released on bail.
A Broader Pattern of Persecution?
This incident highlights concerns about the safety and security of religious minorities in Bangladesh. Rights groups have long alleged that Hindu minorities face systemic violence, often linked to political rivalries or land disputes. Observers worry that such incidents perpetuate a climate of fear, making it difficult for minority communities to live peacefully.
The assault on Ujjal Kumar Mondal has reignited calls for accountability and protection for vulnerable groups. Many are demanding that the perpetrators face legal consequences to prevent further incidents of targeted violence.