Most recent attacks on minorities not communal: Police Headquarters

The Police Headquarters (PHQ) on Tuesday stated that most recent incidents involving attacks on religious minorities were not driven by communal motives, but rather stemmed from personal, financial, or family-related disputes, as well as general criminal activities.

The statement was issued in response to allegations made at a recent press conference jointly organized by the Bangladesh Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Oikya Parishad and the Minority Oikya Murcha. At the event, the groups claimed that 27 people were killed between January and June this year, and reported 2,442 incidents of communal violence over the past 11 months.

According to the PHQ, 22 murder cases and five unnatural death cases were filed during this period. Investigations revealed that the causes included land disputes, financial dealings, robberies, terrorist attacks, and domestic conflicts. Three of the deaths were ruled as suicides, 11 bodies were recovered under unclear circumstances, and the rest remain under investigation.

Police reported that 48 suspects have been arrested, 15 have surrendered, and 18 have given confessional statements. “No communal motive has been found in these killings,” the statement emphasized.

Addressing reports of 20 incidents of rape and sexual assault, police confirmed that 16 cases were filed and 25 individuals arrested. No complaints were lodged in three of the cases, while two allegations—in Rajshahi’s Tanore and Magura—were found to be unsubstantiated.

The PHQ also responded to claims of 2,010 incidents of violence between August 4 and 20 last year. After reviewing records from 56 districts, police confirmed 1,457 incidents, with 62 cases filed, 951 general diaries recorded, and 35 people arrested. Of the 1,769 incidents reported on August 5, 2024, authorities said 1,234 were linked to political conflicts.

Regarding attacks on religious sites, police confirmed 127 incidents involving puja mandaps and temples. Sixty-six cases were filed, and 64 people were arrested. Of 60 complaints involving theft, vandalism, arson, and land grabs, 20 thefts led to 14 cases and five GDs, while 18 cases were filed for 24 instances of idol and temple vandalism, resulting in 15 arrests.

No sabotage was found in four reported arson cases, and six land-related allegations were not verified as land grabs. Authorities said incidents such as the eviction from railway land in Khilkhet and the vandalism at a cremation ground in Bogura were resolved administratively.

The PHQ reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of minority communities, adding that all allegations are being investigated with due diligence.