On January 11, 2026, Samir Das, a 28-year-old Hindu auto-rickshaw driver in Bangladesh, was fatally beaten and stabbed in Chittagong’s Daganbhuiyan neighborhood. He was killed at the scene after stealing his battery-powered autorickshaw and running away. Police have started looking for the offenders, and the family intends to file an official complaint.
Another Hindu Life Lost in Extremism
The murder of Samir is not an isolated incident. In Bangladesh, attacks on Hindus and other minority groups have been on the rise lately. These attacks, according to experts, are a part of a pattern of Islamic extremism that is frequently concealed behind minor disagreements or political issues. Minority communities are afraid as a result of this ongoing violence, particularly in places where Hindus make up less than 10% of the population.
Why Do Minorities Feel Unsafe in Bangladesh?
Minority communities, especially Hindus, now feel scared and vulnerable. In areas where Hindus make up less than 10% of the population, even everyday activities like working or running a shop have become risky. Repeated attacks create fear and mistrust within communities.
Is the Yunus Government Helpless, or Are These Killings Strategic?
The government led by Muhammad Yunus has condemned the killing of Samir Das and promised to take action. However, critics say the government often downplays attacks on minorities, calling them personal disputes instead of communal violence. This raises questions: is the government too weak to stop these attacks, or is it allowing them to happen, letting extremists act freely?
International Attention and Criticism
India and international organisations have expressed concern over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. They have urged the government to act firmly to protect vulnerable communities and ensure justice for victims like Samir Das.
