Protests condemning violence against Hindus in Bangladesh across multiple cities in India on Tuesday after a Hindu man was lynched by a mob in Mymensingh. Meanwhile, Bangladesh also witnessed unrest following the killing of political activist Sharif Osman Hadi. Diplomatic tensions rose after demonstrations near Bangladeshi missions in India prompted heightened security, detentions, and the suspension of consular services.The tensions led to India summoning the Bangladesh high commissioner after the latter had called Indian envoy earlier.
Dipu Chandra Das’ killing sparks outrage
The protests were triggered by the killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Das was allegedly beaten to death by a mob over accusations of blasphemy on December 18, after which his body was set on fire. The incident sparked outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of religious minorities in Bangladesh.
India summons Bangladesh high commissioner
India summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah on Tuesday, as reported by ANI. This came after Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma to convey its “grave concern” over the security of its missions.
Kolkata: Police lathi-charge protesters near Bangladesh deputy high commissioner
Members of Bangiyo Hindu Jagran and several other Hindu organizations staged a protest near the Deputy High Commission of Bangladesh in Kolkata, condemning atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh and the killing of 27-year-old Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das. Protesters had planned to submit a deputation, but tensions escalated as large crowds gathered near the diplomatic premises.Police said a lathi charge was carried out to prevent a breach of law and order after the situation became volatile.
Mumbai and Delhi: VHP protesters detained
In Mumbai, police detained members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) during demonstrations over the same issue.Meanwhile, in the national capital, VHP members and activists from other Hindu organizations were detained near the Bangladesh High Commission after protesters pushed barricades and attempted to enter the premises. Heavy security was deployed as slogans were raised and demonstrators chanted religious slogans while being taken away in police buses.
Hyderabad: Minority safety and infiltration concerns raised
In Hyderabad’s Kothapet area, several Hindu organizations led by the VHP staged protests condemning violence against minorities in Bangladesh. Protest leaders warned of escalating agitation if concrete steps were not taken.VHP National Spokesperson Shashidhar alleged that large numbers of Bangladeshi infiltrators and Rohingyas were living in the city and urged the state government to address security concerns, warning of further action if no response followed.
Effigies burnt, anger directed at Bangladesh government
Sentiments against Bangladesh’s interim government intensified during the protests, with demonstrators burning effigies of Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus and the national flag of Bangladesh. Slogans condemning the Dhaka administration were raised at multiple protest sites.In response to the security situation, Bangladesh suspended consular and visa services in New Delhi and Agartala.
Dhaka: Protests over killing of Inqilab Moncho leader Osman Hadi.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh witnessed its own wave of protests after Inqilab Moncho held a rally in Dhaka over the killing of its convenor and spokesperson, Sharif Osman Hadi. The group demanded justice ahead of the upcoming national election and referendum.Hadi was shot at close range on December 12 in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area and later airlifted to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on December 18.
Yunus calls for peace
The chief of interim government Muhammad Yunus condemned the killing of the Hindu man while calling for peace and assuring justice. “The Office of the Chief Advisor expresses its profound sorrow over the recent killing of factory worker Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh and extends its deepest condolences to his family. On behalf of the government, Education Advisor Professor CR Abrar visited the family in Mymensingh on Tuesday to convey the government’s sympathy and assurance of support during this difficult time,” he said in a post on X.“The Interim Government reiterates that this killing was a heinous criminal act with no justification and no place in Bangladeshi society. Allegations, rumours, or differences of belief can never excuse violence, and no individual has the right to take the law into their own hands. The government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the rule of law. The authority to investigate alleged offenses and to ensure justice through due process rests solely with the state,” he added.Further confirming the arrest of 12 individuals with connection to the killing, he said, “Law enforcement authorities have arrested 12 individuals in connection with the crime. Investigations are ongoing, and the Interim Government has directed that the case be pursued fully and without exception. Such acts of violence will be met with the full force of the law. The government remains fully committed to ensuring the safety, dignity, and equal protection of all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or background. It calls upon all communities, institutions, and leaders to reject violence, resist attempts to create division or unrest, and uphold restraint, humanity, and respect for the law.”Additionally, it stated that it will provide assistance to the man’s family, “The Office of the Chief Adviser confirms that financial and welfare assistance will be provided to the family of Dipu Chandra Das, and that the relevant authorities will remain in close contact with them in the coming period. The Interim Government reiterates its resolve to protect all citizens and to ensure that justice is served.”
Bangladesh government promises speedy trial
Bangladesh’s Law Advisor Asif Nazrul announced that the murder case would be transferred to the Speedy Trial Tribunal under the Speedy Trial Tribunal Act, 2002, requiring completion within 90 days of the police investigation report.Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said joint forces have arrested 10 people so far, including relatives of the prime accused, Faisal Karim Masud. Authorities said the case is being treated as a top priority.Political Fallout Ahead of Bangladesh ElectionsHadi, a prominent leader of the July uprising that led to the fall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, was being considered as a potential candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency in the February 2026 national elections.Following his death, the interim government declared a national day of mourning on December 20, even as Inqilab Moncho warned of a mass movement to oust the government if justice is not delivered.
