According to affected families, the fire broke out late in the night after miscreants allegedly stuffed rooms with clothes and set them alight, causing the flames to spread rapidly. Eight members from the targeted households managed to escape by cutting through tin sheets and bamboo fencing. Their homes, household goods and livestock were completely destroyed.
Local police said five suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident. “The investigation is ongoing, and the motive is still being examined,” a senior police officer said, adding that security has been increased in the area to prevent further violence. Videos circulating on social media showed villagers attempting to douse the flames as the houses burned.
The arson attack comes amid growing concern over violence against minorities in Bangladesh. According to a recent report by the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM), at least 71 blasphemy-related attacks targeting Hindu communities were reported between June and December this year. The incidents were recorded across more than 30 districts, including Rangpur, Khulna, Chattogram, Gazipur, Tangail and Sylhet.
Human rights groups say the attacks follow a recurring pattern. Allegations—often originating on social media—are made against individuals for allegedly insulting religion. This is followed by swift police action against the accused, while mobs gather and unleash violence on entire Hindu neighbourhoods. In many cases, the allegation involves a single person, but the repercussions affect dozens of families.
HRCBM noted that more than 90 percent of those accused in such cases are Hindus, with several victims being minors aged between 15 and 17. The report also highlighted instances where cases were filed based on verbal accusations or allegedly fake or hacked social media posts, without thorough preliminary investigation.
The trend has raised questions about the state’s ability to protect vulnerable communities. In some instances, violence has continued even after police took accused individuals into custody. A recent mob killing of a Hindu youth in December, following alleged blasphemy charges, further underscored the risks faced by minorities.
Rights activists have urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure impartial investigations, prevent mob mobilisation and strengthen protections for minority communities. As investigations into the Pirojpur arson continue, families displaced by the fire remain sheltered with relatives, awaiting assistance and assurances of safety.
