‘A clear violation of human rights’: ASK condemns attacks on Hindu community

Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has strongly condemned the violent attacks, looting, and vandalism of Hindu homes in Betgari Union of Gangachara Upazila, Rangpur.

In a statement issued today (29 July), the rights group said, "The assault, reportedly triggered by a Facebook post from a teenage boy, is a grave violation of justice and human rights, wholly unacceptable in any civilised society."

According to media reports, the boy, identified as Ranjan Kumar Roy, a student of Rangpur Polytechnic Institute, was arrested under the Cyber Security Act on Saturday evening (26 July) for allegedly hurting religious sentiment. Later that night, an angry mob attacked several Hindu homes in the village.

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Nineteen of 22 Hindu families were affected. ASK noted that although the accused had already been detained, provocative announcements over loudspeakers incited a mob to launch further attacks, leading to widespread panic and destruction. 

Security forces, including police and army personnel, were deployed to restore order.

The organisation warned that such communal violence, often committed with impunity, is becoming alarmingly frequent.

"This culture of lawlessness violates Articles 27, 28, and 41 of the Constitution, which guarantee equal rights for all citizens, regardless of religion," ASK said.

It also criticised the failure of local authorities to prevent the unrest, stressing that the state cannot avoid responsibility. "Accountability must be ensured not just for the attackers, but also for those who allowed the violence to occur."

ASK demanded immediate prosecution of those involved, protection and compensation for affected families, and urgent rehabilitation measures to ensure their security and dignity.

Despite intervention by law enforcement, further vandalism occurred the following day, targeting additional Hindu homes in the area.