Temples, houses vandalized in Sunamganj over allegations of defaming religion

Temples, shops and houses of the Hindu community were attacked and vandalized over allegations of hurting religious sentiments on social media in Tahirpur Upazila of Sunamganj.

Although a young HSC examinee was arrested and sent to jail in this incident, several local temples, shops and houses of the Hindu community were attacked and vandalized. This has caused panic in the area.

According to the police, a case has been filed against the young man under the Cyber ​​Security Act for allegedly making 'objectionable' comments about the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) on Facebook. The police arrested him on Tuesday night and sent him to jail through the court on Wednesday.

However, tension has spread in the Badaghat Bazar and Garkati areas of Tahirpur since Tuesday evening over the alleged incident. It has been alleged that angry people vandalized several houses, three temples and two businesses.

The family of the accused youth claimed that after he was taken away by the police, hundreds of people attacked their house. Family members said that various items including furniture, water motors, tanks and other items were vandalized and looted. After the incident, some family members left the area and sought shelter elsewhere for safety reasons.

According to local residents, extreme anxiety and insecurity have arisen among the Hindu community after the attack. Many have closed their shops and stayed at home.

Ganesh Talukder, General Secretary of Tahirpur Upazila Puja Udjapaon Parishad, said that three temples including Badaghat Kali Temple, Garkati Kali Temple and Durga Temple were damaged in the attack. The theatre in front of the temples was also vandalized.

Locals claim that if a person commits a crime, he should be tried through the law. But it is unacceptable to blame the entire community for the accusations of one person and attack temples and houses.

After the incident, Sunamganj Superintendent of Police ABM Zakir Hossain visited the scene. He toured the affected area and urged everyone to remain calm.

Police said that investigations are underway to identify those involved in the vandalism and attacks. In addition, additional police are being deployed in the area to maintain law and order.

Locals expect that in addition to taking legal action against the accused, those involved in the attacks on temples and houses will also be brought to justice quickly and the safety of the victims will be ensured.