Kolkata

Protests broke out in Kolkata on Monday as demonstrators surrounded the Bangladesh High Commission, expressing anger over the mob lynching and burning of Hindu youth Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh district.

The protest was led by BJP leader and Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, along with party leaders and supporters. Demonstrators condemned the killing and demanded accountability from Bangladeshi authorities.

Addressing the gathering, Adhikari said the brutal killing had deeply angered the Hindu community and warned of intensified agitation. He announced a one-hour blockade at the India–Bangladesh border on December 24 and another protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission on December 26.

“Dipu Das was burnt alive. We will not allow them to sit here. They will have to lock this up. The entire Hindu community will not spare them,” Adhikari said.

Dipu Chandra Das, a garment factory worker, was allegedly beaten to death by a mob over accusations of blasphemy on December 18. Reports said his body was later hung and set on fire.

However, Bangladesh’s Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) said investigators found no evidence that Dipu had made any Facebook post or remarks hurting religious sentiments. RAB officials stated that neither residents nor co-workers could substantiate the blasphemy allegation.

The victim’s brother, Apu Chandra Das, filed a case at Bhaluka Police Station naming 140–150 unidentified persons. The incident has sparked outrage across Bangladesh and India.

In Delhi, Delhi State Haj Committee chairperson Kausar Jahan condemned the killing as “reprehensible and barbaric,” urging the Bangladesh government to ensure the safety of minorities and warning that such violence could damage India–Bangladesh relations.

In Dhaka, Hindu religious organisations and minority groups staged protests outside the National Press Club, demanding justice and protection for minorities.

Meanwhile, VHP International Working President Alok Kumar questioned the circumstances of the killing, citing reports that the victim made no blasphemous remarks, and announced nationwide protests over the next two days.

Bangladesh law enforcement agencies have so far arrested 12 people in connection with the lynching. Chief Adviser of the interim government, Muhammad Yunus, confirmed the arrests and said investigations were ongoing.

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The killing of Dipu Chandra Das has triggered widespread condemnation, with growing calls for justice, minority protection and restraint to prevent further deterioration of regional harmony.