97 shrines attacked nationwide in 17 months, highest in Dhaka and Chattogram: Makam

At least 97 shrines have been attacked across the country over the past 17 months, with the highest number of incidents recorded in Dhaka and Chattogram divisions, according to a report by Makam: Centre for Sufi Heritage.

The report was unveiled at a press conference at the Shafiqul Kabir Auditorium of Dhaka Reporters Unity on Monday.

Makam coordinator Mohammad Abu Sayeed presented the findings, stating that between August 5, 2024 and December 31, reports of attacks on 134 shrines were received, but investigations confirmed evidence in 97 cases. The remaining 37 could not be verified, including six identified as rumours.

Of the confirmed incidents, 64 occurred in Dhaka and Chattogram divisions, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the total. Cumilla recorded the highest number at 17 incidents, followed by Narsingdi with 10 and Dhaka with nine.

Division-wise, the report documented 36 attacks in Dhaka, 28 in Chattogram, nine in Sylhet, eight in Mymensingh, six in Rajshahi, five in Khulna, three in Rangpur and two in Barishal.

The analysis found that 59 attacks stemmed from religious disagreements, 21 from local disputes, 16 from political vendettas and one from a family conflict.

In nearly all incidents, attackers were identified as members of groups calling themselves “Tawhidi Janata”. Video analysis confirmed the use of “Naraye Takbir” slogans in at least 23 attacks. Seven mosques associated with shrines were also targeted.

The report cited political involvement in several cases, alleging links to local leaders and supporters of Islami Andolon Bangladesh in 13 incidents. BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami were linked to four cases each, the banned Awami League to two, and the National Citizen Party and Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis to one each.

Three people were killed and 468 injured in the attacks. Among the injured, 180 were in Dhaka division, 153 in Mymensingh and 31 in Chattogram.

The report also questioned the role of law enforcement, noting that despite advance announcements using loudspeakers in at least 10 cases, no effective resistance was seen. Only 11 cases were filed.

Currently, 44 attacked shrines remain abandoned, with annual Urs ceremonies suspended. Six shrines were demolished using bulldozers.

Makam said letters have been sent to 12 political parties urging them to include compensation, restoration and long-term solutions for damaged shrines, dargahs and khanqahs in their election manifestos.