Shrine attacked, vandalized and set on fire in Kushtia; pir killed
An attack, vandalism, and arson took place at a shrine in Daulatpur upazila of Kushtia, centering on allegations of desecration of the Quran. In the attack, the shrine’s ‘chief pir’ Abdur Rahman, also known as Shamim (65), was killed. Three others were also injured during the incident.
The attack occurred on Saturday (April 11) at noon at ‘Shamim Baba’s Darbar Sharif’, located in the Darogar Mor area of Philipnagar Union in the upazila. The deceased Shamim was the son of the late Jeser Master of South Philipnagar village under Philipnagar Union. It is learned that he was previously arrested on April 17, 2021, on allegations of religious defamation.
According to locals, a video spread on social media since morning, where Shamim was seen making allegedly derogatory remarks about the Quran at an event. This sparked tension in the area. At one point, an angry mob attacked the shrine, carrying out extensive vandalism and arson. Shamim and several others were injured on the spot. Later, police rescued the injured and took them to Daulatpur Upazila Health Complex, where the on-duty doctor declared Shamim dead. Upon receiving the news, a team from the fire service quickly reached the scene and brought the fire under control. Police also arrived at the scene, brought the situation under control, and additional security has been strengthened in the area.
Family Planning Officer of the Upazila Health Complex, Dr. Towhidul Hasan Tuhin, said, “Four people were brought to the hospital in injured condition. Among them, one has died. The others are receiving treatment.”
Regarding the matter, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Daulatpur Police Station, Arifur Rahman, said, “I am on leave. However, I have heard about the incident. Police have been sent there.”
Inspector (Investigation) of the police station, Sheikh Mohammad Ali Mortuza, said, “Police went to the scene after receiving the news and brought the situation under control. So far, no one has been detained in connection with the incident. Investigation is ongoing.”
