17 October, 2026 – Barishal, Bangladesh — Concerns over the safety of Hindu communities during Durga Puja have intensified following allegations that a Hindu family’s home was attacked in Habibpur village under Wazirpur Upazila of Barishal district. A woman was reportedly injured in the incident and is receiving hospital treatment.
According to the allegations, the attack was carried out by land-grabber Motahar Mallik and his alleged associates, identified as Jasim, Zahid, and Rabbi, a serving military personnel who was reportedly on leave at the time.
A woman from the affected family sustained injuries during the alleged attack and was subsequently taken to a hospital for treatment.
The allegations further state that Rabbi Mallik threatened women in the household even after police arrived at the scene. The reported threats, allegedly made in the presence of police personnel, have raised concerns among local residents.
Police have reportedly taken prompt action and arrested the principal accused, Motahar Mallik. However, demands have been raised for the arrest of the other individuals named in the allegations and for a fair and impartial investigation into the incident.
Calls have also been made to ensure the safety of the affected family and bring every individual allegedly involved in the attack to justice in accordance with the law.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns about the security of Hindu families during Durga Puja. Residents and rights advocates are calling for effective law enforcement, accountability, and protection for vulnerable communities so that they can observe their religious festivals without fear.
The allegations against the named individuals require proper investigation, and their responsibility for the incident must be established through due legal process.
