Staff Reporter:
The government has refuted claims of communal links in a mob lynching incident in Rajbari, saying the incident was rather an outburst of public anger against extortion activities.
In a statement, the government has also declared legal action against the extrajudicial activity, and warned of strict measures against the undermining of communal harmony through fabricated narratives.
Information have been spread on social media and in various news outlets painting the killing of a Hindu man, a criminal as per the government, in the Pangsha Police Station area on Wednesday night as a communal attack.
The government press release, citing police information and preliminary investigations, said, “It is evident that the incident was by no means a communal attack. Rather, it was a violent incident arising from extortion and criminal activities. The deceased, a top-listed criminal named Amrit Mondal alias Samrat, had come to the area with the intention of demanding extortion money and lost his life during a clash with agitated local residents.”
The statement continues: “He was previously an accused in multiple serious cases, including murder and extortion cases filed in 2023, and arrest warrants had been issued against him in those cases. From the scene of the incident, police arrested Samrat’s associate Selim along with one foreign-made pistol and one pipe gun.
“Three cases have already been filed in connection with this incident.
“The government strongly condemns this killing. The government clearly states that it does not support any form of extrajudicial activity, mob violence, or violence of any kind. Legal action will be taken against all those directly or indirectly involved in this incident. Law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation.
“At the same time, the government is observing with deep concern that certain groups are attempting to portray the incident as a communal attack by highlighting the religious identity of the deceased. Such attempts are completely baseless and driven by malicious intent. This kind of propaganda may disrupt social harmony and deteriorate the law and order situation.
“The government urges all concerned to act responsibly and requests everyone to refrain from spreading misleading, provocative, and communal statements.
“The government remains firmly committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice. Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony, and any attempt to undermine the peace and stability of the nation will be dealt with strictly.”
