Rights activists visit violence-stricken houses of Sanatan communities in Jashore, demand justice

A citizen delegation visiting the violence-stricken areas of Abhaynagar in Jashore has expressed grave concern over the sense of insecurity prevailing among marginalised Sanatan communities following the recent attacks on their homes and businesses. 

The team visited the affected villages today (3 June) and called for a thorough investigation and justice for the attacks on at least 20 homes belonging mainly to lower-caste Sanatan groups, particularly the Matua community.

The violence erupted on 22 May in the village of Dhor Mosihati, following the murder of local Krishak Dal leader Tariqul Islam. That very evening, mobs attacked Sanatan households, setting them on fire and looting valuables.

The citizen delegation from Dhaka included Prof Robayet Ferdous of Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at University of Dhaka; Zakir Hossain, executive director of Nagorik Uddyog; Supriya Bhattacharya, president of Nari Oikya Parishad; Dipayan Khisa, human rights activist; Deepak Shil, former president of Bangladesh Student Union; and Satez Chakma, rights activist and executive editor of IPNews.

During the visit, the team met with victims, spoke to local representatives, police, and journalists, and had discussions with Abhaynagar Police Station Sub-Inspector Anish Chakraborty and Upazila Nirbahi Officer Joydeep Chakraborty.

Speaking to reporters, Prof Robayet Ferdous said, "The murder of the Krishak Dal leader is deeply condemnable and a gross violation of human rights. However, what followed — the organised attack on poor and innocent Sanatan homes — is equally horrific. Many victims have lost their homes and livelihoods. We found that these communities are now living in fear. We urge the local administration to ensure their safety and provide necessary relief to restore their confidence."

Zakir Hossain said, "The destruction is massive — 20 homes set ablaze, livestock stolen or severely injured, shops looted, and stored crops destroyed. The victims have received only meager relief compared to the scale of their loss. We call on the authorities to assess the damages properly and ensure adequate rehabilitation."

The delegation also visited the family of the slain Krishak Dal leader Tariqul Islam and spoke with his relatives. 

"It appears that the murder stemmed from a local power struggle. However, the subsequent communal violence was an attempt to divert attention. We demand a fair investigation into both the murder and the coordinated attacks on the Sanatan community, and we call for legal action against all perpetrators," Prof Ferdous said.