In Lalmonirhat Sadar Upazila, a father and son have been arrested on charges of insulting religious sentiments. The incident, which allegedly involved derogatory remarks about Islam, sparked widespread anger among locals, with hundreds of people gathering to protest at the accused men’s barbershop and the police station. As tensions escalated, the army was deployed to maintain law and order and to assure the public of a fair and thorough investigation into the matter.
Details of the Incident
According to police and local sources, the incident began on the afternoon of Friday, June 20, in the Gosla Bazar area of Lalmonirhat Municipality. A customer named Namjul Islam, who had gone to a local barbershop for a shave, alleged that the shop owner, 75‑year‑old Paresh Chandra Shil, and his son, 35‑year‑old Bishnu Chandra Shil, made derogatory remarks about Prophet Muhammad, Hazrat Aisha, and the Black Stone.
After the incident, Namjul Islam informed nearby locals, prompting a group of people to gather at the shop. By Sunday, June 22, tensions had risen sharply, and an enraged crowd reportedly beat the father and son before police arrived and took both into custody. They were later charged with “hurting religious sentiments” and brought to the local police station.
Protests and Army Deployment
Although police acted quickly by detaining the accused, anger within the community persisted. By the afternoon, hundreds of people had surrounded Lalmonirhat Sadar Police Station, demanding exemplary punishment for the father and son. As tensions threatened to spiral out of control, authorities called in the army to help restore order.
Police and army personnel worked to calm the protesters and assured them that due legal process would be followed. According to official statements, the authorities emphasized the necessity for restraint, reminding the public to respect the rule of law.
Official Responses
Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Lalmonirhat Sadar Police Station, Nurun Nabi Mia, stated:
“Two individuals have been detained on charges of hurting religious sentiments. A case has been registered, and legal proceedings are underway.”
Major Amir, representing the army, told reporters:
“Those responsible for hurting religious sentiments will be brought to justice. We are vigilant to ensure that no one takes the law into their own hands.”
Escalation and Resolution
By late afternoon, the gathering outside the police station had swelled to over a thousand people. The protesters pressed for severe punishment and expressed skepticism about the authorities’ ability to ensure accountability. Police and army representatives reassured the demonstrators that an impartial investigation and trial would be conducted. Gradually, the crowds dispersed, and the area returned to calm.
Case Registration and Upcoming Protests
According to police, a formal case has been filed against Paresh Chandra Shil and Bishnu Chandra Shil for allegedly hurting religious sentiments. The authorities confirmed that legal proceedings have been launched and are ongoing.
Meanwhile, a fresh protest has been announced for Tuesday afternoon at the Railway Station Mosque. The Imam of Lalmonirhat’s Central Jame Mosque, Atikur Rahman, called upon the faithful to rally and demand accountability for the alleged offense.
Context and Pattern of Similar Incidents
Incidents involving accusations of blasphemy have become alarmingly common in Bangladesh, especially impacting minority communities. In many instances, subsequent investigations have revealed that such cases were fueled by vested interests or deliberately fabricated to justify attacks, intimidation, or eviction of religious and ethnic minorities. Yet, those responsible for spreading such tensions often remain beyond the reach of the law.
Publication Date: 22 June, 2025
Reports published in various newspapers on this issue: bdnews24, nagorik, dailyjanakantha
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