A 25-year-old Hindu law student and temple priest in Bangladesh has been hospitalised after he was allegedly abducted, physically assaulted and extorted by unidentified individuals in an incident that has sparked concern among members of the country’s Hindu community. The victim, identified as Subhash Deuri, is currently undergoing treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital after suffering serious injuries.
According to local media reports, the incident occurred late on Monday night in Dhaka. Deuri, who is pursuing legal studies at Dhaka Central Law College, also serves as an assistant priest at the central temple of Jagannath University, where he performs daily religious rituals.
Family Received Ransom Call
The victim’s family alleged that they received a distressing phone call during the early hours of Tuesday from Deuri’s mobile phone. Instead of hearing his voice, an unidentified caller reportedly demanded 30,000 Bangladeshi Taka for his release.
His sister said the caller instructed the family to transfer the money to a specified account. After negotiations, around 26,000 Bangladeshi Taka was reportedly transferred. Shortly afterwards, Deuri was found abandoned in the Old Dhaka area with multiple injuries.
He was immediately rushed to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where doctors admitted him for treatment.
Victim Allegedly Subjected to Physical and Mental Abuse
According to Deuri’s roommate, the victim managed to describe parts of his ordeal despite being injured. He reportedly said that the attackers physically assaulted him, stripped him of his clothes and mentally tortured him while forcing him to contact relatives and friends to arrange money for his release.
The roommate also revealed that he had received a call from Deuri’s phone requesting financial help but was unable to send any money at the time. When Deuri was later located, his mobile phone and wallet were reportedly missing, raising suspicions that robbery may also have been involved.
Community Leaders Seek Detailed Investigation
The incident has drawn the attention of representatives of the Bangladesh Hindu community. A spokesperson for the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council said the organisation was gathering more information about the case to determine whether it was an isolated criminal act or part of a broader pattern targeting members of minority communities.
The organisation stated that it would continue monitoring developments while seeking clarity from the authorities regarding the motive behind the alleged abduction and assault.
Victim’s Background
Subhash Deuri belongs to Bangladesh’s Magura district in the Khulna division, located nearly 170 kilometres from Dhaka. He had been living in a rented apartment in the capital city with a friend while continuing his law studies.
Alongside his academic pursuits, he had reportedly been serving as an assistant priest at Jagannath University’s central temple for several months. His responsibilities included conducting daily religious ceremonies, for which he received a monthly honorarium.
Investigation Underway
Police are expected to investigate the alleged kidnapping, assault and extortion, including tracing the bank account into which the ransom money was transferred. Authorities are also likely to examine phone records and other evidence to identify those responsible.
No arrests had been reported at the time of publication, and officials had not yet disclosed whether the attackers specifically targeted the victim because of his occupation or religious identity. Investigators are examining all possible motives behind the incident.
The case has renewed concerns over the safety of individuals belonging to minority communities in Bangladesh, with community organisations calling for a transparent investigation and swift action against those responsible. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the inquiry progresses
In recent years, Bangladesh’s Hindu minority has repeatedly raised concerns over incidents of violence, intimidation, vandalism of temples, land grabbing and attacks during religious festivals and political unrest. Human rights organisations have documented several cases of assaults on Hindu families and places of worship, prompting demands for stronger protection and accountability.
Hindu community groups have organised peaceful protests, candlelight marches and memoranda to the government, calling for justice, enhanced security and strict action against perpetrators.
