DHAKA: Since August 4, 2024, Bangladesh police have documented 44 incidents of vandalism targeting 40 shrines, including mazars (Sufi graveyards) and dargahs, across various regions of the country.
The attacks involved vandalism of shrines, assaults on devotees, looting of properties, and arson, according to a police report released on Saturday. The highest number of incidents—17—occurred in Dhaka Division, followed by 10 in Chattogram Division and 7 in Mymensingh Division. Notably, a single shrine in Sherpur District, Mymensingh Division, was targeted four times.
Legal Response
Authorities have taken legal action in all 44 cases. This includes filing 15 regular cases and 29 general diaries (GD) based on complaints from victims or on the police’s own initiative. So far, 23 suspects have been arrested in connection with the attacks.
The police are continuing their investigations to identify and apprehend others involved in these incidents. The vandalism has raised concerns about the safety of religious sites and prompted calls for stronger measures to protect them.
