What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
Hindu Voice Team: A shocking incident of religious intolerance has shaken Khulna’s Paikgachha upazila during the ongoing Durga Puja festivities. Police have arrested Rajib Newaz, former joint convener of the BNP’s volunteer wing (Swecchasebak Dal), for allegedly storming a Hindu Puja mandap, verbally abusing devotees, and attempting to assault the presiding priest on Friday night (October 3).
According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed by priest Adhir Mondal of the Batikhali Sarbojonin Puja Mandap, Rajib entered the temple premises uninvited and ordered that the devotional music be stopped, using obscene and offensive language against both the priest and devotees. Witnesses stated that when the priest objected, Rajib attempted to attack him physically, causing chaos and fear among the worshippers.
The FIR also mentioned that this was not the first instance of such behavior. Earlier, Rajib had objected to music being played during the festivities and was warned by the Puja Committee. Despite giving assurances that he would not repeat such conduct, he returned on Friday morning and allegedly insulted the deities, making derogatory remarks about the idols — an act that devotees said “hurt the very soul of our faith.”
Paikgachha Police Officer-in-Charge (OC) Riaz Mahmud confirmed the arrest, saying:
“Rajib Newaz has been detained based on specific charges of hurting religious sentiments and creating communal disorder. A full investigation is underway, and strict legal action will follow.”
The incident has sparked outrage across the Khulna region, with local Hindu organizations condemning what they called a “calculated act of provocation and religious humiliation.” Community leaders have demanded exemplary punishment for those who seek to ignite communal tension under political banners.
“This is not just an attack on a priest or a Puja mandap; this is an attack on Bangladesh’s secular harmony,” said one member of the local Puja Udjapan Parishad. “Those who insult religion to score political points must face justice.”
Human rights activists and citizens have also called for a nationwide crackdown on hate-driven activities during religious festivals, stressing that such extremist behavior—especially when linked to political figures—poses a grave threat to social stability.
As the investigation continues, security has been tightened around other Puja mandaps in the district to prevent further unrest.
Bangladesh’s commitment to communal harmony, many say, will be truly tested by how firmly the law acts against those who dare to disrupt it.
