The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has strongly condemned the killing of a Hindu man who was beaten to death after being accused of blasphemy. The incident happened during a fresh wave of violent protests that followed the death of a student leader. The government said such violence has no place in the country and promised strict action against everyone involved.

About the incident

The victim has been identified as Dipu Chandra Das, a young Hindu man who worked in a garment factory. He was living as a tenant in the Dubalia Para area of Bhaluka Upazila in Mymensingh district. According to the police, a group of local residents accused him of making disrespectful comments about Prophet Muhammad. The mob allegedly attacked him around 9 pm on Thursday, leading to his death.

In an official statement, the interim government said it “deeply condemns” the brutal killing. It stressed that Bangladesh does not allow violence based on religion or accusations of blasphemy. The government said no one involved in the crime would be spared and promised that all those responsible would be brought to justice.

The Yunus-led administration also urged citizens to stay alert and reject all forms of violence. It said that some isolated extremist groups were trying to create fear and chaos through attacks, arson and destruction. The government warned that such actions would not be allowed to derail Bangladesh’s democratic process, especially at a time when the country is going through an important political transition.

The killing took place at a time when Bangladesh is already facing unrest following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Hadi was a prominent figure in recent protests and was known for his strong opposition to the previous government led by Sheikh Hasina, as well as for his anti-India views. He died from gunshot injuries after being attacked by unknown assailants earlier this month.

After Hadi’s death, thousands of his supporters took to the streets demanding justice. However, many protests soon turned violent. Several buildings were set on fire, and attacks were carried out on institutions linked to the former government. In Dhaka, mobs attacked and burned the offices of leading newspapers such as Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, trapping journalists inside.

The government expressed solidarity with journalists from The Daily Star, Prothom Alo and New Age, whose offices and staff were targeted. It apologised for the fear and violence they faced and said that attacks on journalists are attacks on truth. The administration promised full justice and protection for media workers.

With Bangladesh’s general election just two months away, the situation remains tense. Protesters have also targeted cultural centres and the residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s founding father. The unrest has taken on an anti-India tone, with some protesters accusing India of sheltering Hadi’s attackers and demanding the closure of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka.