U.S. Congressman Condemns Killing of Dipu Das, Voices Concern Over Bangladesh’s Growing Instability

Melbourne, December 22: U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has strongly condemned the killing of Hindu youth Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh, expressing deep concern over the country’s worsening security situation. He called for the protection of religious minorities, accountability for those responsible, and the restoration of the rule of law.

In a statement, Krishnamoorthi said he was deeply distressed by the brutal mob killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu man in Bangladesh. He described the incident as a stark reminder of the severity of the current instability, noting that such violence has occurred at a particularly dangerous and volatile time. While acknowledging that authorities have begun making arrests, he emphasised that arrests alone are not sufficient. The Bangladesh government, he said, must ensure a full, transparent, and impartial investigation and bring every perpetrator to justice through exemplary punishment.

He further urged the authorities to take urgent and effective measures to ensure that members of the Hindu community and other religious minorities are not subjected to similar violence in the future. Ending the ongoing unrest and re-establishing the rule of law, he added, is essential for the safety and wellbeing of all Bangladeshis.

According to reports, Dipu Chandra Das was lynched on the night of December 18 in Bhaluka upazila of Mymensingh district, following allegations of blasphemy. Dipu, a resident of Tarakanda upazila, worked as a labourer at a local knit composite factory, where he was allegedly assaulted.

After the killing, his body was reportedly taken to the Dhaka–Mymensingh highway, dumped by the roadside, and set on fire. The incident led to prolonged traffic disruptions and heightened tension in the area before police arrived and brought the situation under control.

The Rapid Action Battalion has confirmed that at least ten people have been arrested in connection with the murder so far. The killing has reignited nationwide concerns over the rise of mob violence and the safety of religious minorities, drawing international attention to the broader pattern of communal violence in Bangladesh.

Source: Hindustan Times