Hindu businessman stabbed, set ablaze by mob in Bangladesh

A Hindu businessman who was brutally stabbed and set on fire by a mob in southern Bangladesh on New Year’s Eve has died after battling severe burn injuries for nearly three days, hospital officials confirmed on Saturday.

Khokon Chandra Das died at around 7:20 am while undergoing treatment at the National Burn Institute in Dhaka. “Khokon Das, who was injured in a fire attack in Damudya Upazila of Shariatpur, passed away at 7:20 this morning,” said Dr Shaon Bin Rahman, Professor at the institute, speaking to ANI. 

Doctors said approximately 30 per cent of his body was burned, with serious injuries to his face and respiratory tract.

Hospital authorities said formalities were being completed to return his body to his village home.

The attack occurred at around 9:30 pm on December 31 near Keurbhanga Bazar in Koneshwar Union of Damudya Upazila, Shariatpur district. According to local daily Prothom Alo, Das was returning home after closing his pharmacy when a group of miscreants stopped him, assaulted him with sharp weapons, poured petrol on him and set him alight.

In a desperate attempt to survive, Das jumped into a nearby pond. Hearing his screams, local residents rushed to the spot, forcing the attackers to flee.

Police Identify Suspects

Das was first taken to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital before being referred to Dhaka as his condition worsened. Police said two local residents, identified as Rabbi and Sohag, are suspects. “Efforts are underway to arrest them and identify others involved,” said Damudya Police Station officer-in-charge Mohammad Rabiul Haque.

Family Seeks Justice

Das’s family has demanded a proper investigation and swift justice. His nephew-in-law, Pranto Das, said none of the perpetrators should be allowed to escape, urging authorities to act without delay.