A series of arson attacks targeting shrines in Bangladesh has highlighted the ongoing religious tensions in the country. The incidents follow earlier attacks on temples. On Thursday, rioters set fire to three shrines in the Homan Upazila of Cumilla. The attacks led to one death and injured 22 others. Due to the sensitive nature of the events, the police have sealed off the entire area.
Disputes concerning Islamic beliefs are believed to be the trigger for the attacks. According to reports, a disagreement between local residents and those connected to the shrines led to the arson. Police have launched an investigation, with the primary focus on maintaining order.
The targeted shrines were dedicated to Kafil Uddin Shah, Haweli Shah, and Abdu Shah. These figures are highly regarded in Bangladesh’s religious circles. They were believed to have attempted to establish a separate sect from mainstream Islam. The shrines, located in their hometown of Cumilla, were erected after their deaths. The area surrounding Shah’s shrine is known for its substantial following.
The attacks followed the arrest of Kafil Uddin Shah’s grandson, Mohsin, for a controversial Facebook post concerning Islam and the Prophet Muhammad. Following Mohsin’s arrest, local residents gathered at his house, leading to police intervention. Following the police’s departure, a call from a local mosque gathered a crowd that then set fire to the three shrines. Police eventually regained control.
A British government report notes that from August 2024 to December 2024, Bangladesh saw 133 attacks on places of worship, with most being Hindu temples. Additionally, over 100 attacks have been reported on shrines and Sufi sites. Despite promises by Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus, religious attacks have persisted since his appointment in August 2024.
