20 December 2025, Voice of Minority-VOM:- A suspected arson attack in northern Bangladesh has destroyed nearly nine acres of harvested aromatic rice, dealing a devastating blow to two farming families in Dinajpur’s Birganj upazila.
The incident took place in the Sahapara area of Mahuga village under Sujalpur Union Parishad, where stacks of Chinigura rice belonging to Mahendra Nath Ray and his nephew Palash Chandra Ray were completely reduced to ashes. The loss has wiped out what the families describe as their sole source of income for the year.
According to local residents, the fire broke out at around 2:00am on Friday night. Witnesses say a group of unidentified individuals deliberately set fire to the rice stacks, which had been stored after harvesting. Villagers rushed to the scene after noticing the flames, but the blaze spread rapidly, leaving no chance to save the crop.
Family members said the destroyed harvest came from around nine acres of land and represented months of labour, investment and hope. “We cultivated this crop with immense hardship,” said Mahendra Nath Ray, breaking down in tears. “We have no disputes with anyone. Why would someone do this to us? Now we are left wondering how we will feed our families.”
His nephew, Palash Chandra Ray, described the incident as a planned attack rather than an accident, adding that the manner and timing of the fire suggested deliberate intent.
News of the incident has sparked tension and fear in the surrounding area, with local residents expressing concerns about their safety. Many say the attack has left them feeling vulnerable, warning that similar incidents could occur again if those responsible are not brought to justice.
The affected families and local community members have called on the authorities to carry out an impartial and thorough investigation. They are demanding that the perpetrators be identified swiftly and punished exemplarily, saying accountability is essential to restore a sense of security and prevent further attacks on livelihoods.
For now, the charred remains of the rice stacks stand as a stark reminder of how quickly a year’s work — and a family’s future — can be destroyed in a single night.
