Massive protests have erupted across Bangladesh, including widespread demonstrations by university students in the capital, Dhaka, following the brutal rape of a 21-year-old Hindu woman in the Cumilla district by a local politician.

The horrific incident, which occurred on June 26, 2025, gained widespread attention and ignited public fury after a disturbing video of the assault went viral on social media.

The details of the incident

The primary accused, identified as Fazor Ali, a 36-year-old local politician affiliated with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was arrested in a predawn raid in Dhaka's Sayedabad area on Sunday. Police have also apprehended four other individuals for allegedly filming the assault and circulating the victim's image and identity on social media.

The victim, whose husband works abroad, was visiting her paternal home in Muradnagar sub-district of Cumilla with her children for the local festival of Hari Seva when the incident took place. According to police reports, Fazor Ali, a resident of Ramchandrapur Pachkitta village and known for previously stalking the woman, allegedly broke into her house around 10 pm and assaulted her at knifepoint, threatening her life if she spoke out.

Locals reportedly rushed to the scene after hearing her screams and confronted Ali, who managed to flee despite being beaten.

Protest breaks out in Dhaka

The incident has triggered a wave of criticism from across the country. Students from Dhaka University organized significant marches, thronging the streets and demanding "direct action" against the perpetrators. Residents of Jagannath Hall, a dormitory dedicated to minority community students at Dhaka University, also staged processions calling for immediate justice. Social media platforms have been flooded with calls for accountability, using hashtags like #JusticeForHindus and #StopHinduGenocideInBangladesh.

News coming in from #Dhaka of #Bangladesh.

Hindu students of Dhaka University are protesting tonight against the brutal rape of a Hindu woman in #Muradnagar of #Coomilla. pic.twitter.com/ppZlYu5jns
— Hindu Voice (@HinduVoice_in) June 28, 2025

Bangladesh's High Court has responded by issuing a directive demanding the immediate removal of the disturbing video from social media platforms and instructing authorities to ensure the survivor's safety and provide her with necessary medical treatment and legal support. A case has been filed under the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act, and a formal investigation by Muradnagar police is underway.

The incident comes amidst growing concerns over violence against religious minorities and women in Bangladesh. Human rights organizations have consistently highlighted issues of impunity and the vulnerability of minority communities.

While the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has been urged by India's Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety of Hindus and other minorities, the recent event underscores the persistent challenges faced by these communities.

This brutal crime has not only highlighted the pervasive issue of sexual violence but also reignited debates on the safety and security of minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly in the context of broader political changes and unrest witnessed since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government last August.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Related Topics