The house of a Hindu teacher was set ablaze in Gowainghat Upazila, Sylhet, Bangladesh, raising fears among minority communities. Birendra Kumar Dey, widely known as Jhunu Sir, saw his home targeted in an attack that shocked neighbours and residents.
🚨Another Hindu home comes under attack in Bangladesh!
Islamists have once again set fire at the home of Birendra Kumar Dey alias “Jhunu Sir” (a teacher by profession) in Bahor village of Nandirgaon union in Gowainghat upazila of Sylhet district. pic.twitter.com/2fT57gpn8K
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) January 15, 2026
Video footage of the blaze circulating online shows flames engulfing the house as family members hurriedly escaped. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident has renewed concerns about the safety of Hindu families in the area.
Who is Birendra Kumar Dey aka Jhunu Sir?
Birendra Kumar Dey is a respected teacher in his village, affectionately called “Jhunu Sir” by students and locals. His contributions to education and his standing in the community have earned him recognition, making this attack particularly alarming.
The incident has left the family traumatized, and neighbours worry about further attacks as violence against minorities in Bangladesh continues to rise.
Bangladesh Minority Attack: Hindu Teacher’s House Set on Fire
In the early hours, flames spread rapidly through Jhunu Sir’s home. Residents said smoke filled the neighbourhood, and the family barely escaped unharmed. “We managed to get out in time,” a neighbour said, “but the fire destroyed the house, and the fear it caused is unimaginable.”
Authorities have yet to identify the perpetrators or determine how the fire was started. Local activists are calling for swift action to protect vulnerable communities and hold attackers accountable.
Pattern of Attacks on Hindu Families
This attack is part of a growing trend of violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. In the past month alone, several homes of Hindu families were set on fire in Pirojpur, Chittagong’s Raozan, and other districts.
In some cases, families were trapped inside by locked doors and had to escape by cutting through roofs or walls. The violence has included arson, physical attacks, and even killings, often sparked by allegations of blasphemy or online posts.
Community Reaction and Calls for Justice
Residents and activists have demanded a thorough investigation into Jhunu Sir’s house fire. Many called for stronger security measures to protect minorities.
“Such attacks raise serious questions about the safety of minorities,” a neighbour said. “We need justice, and the authorities must act immediately to prevent more incidents.”
Broader Context of Minority Violence in Bangladesh
Human rights groups report hundreds of attacks on minority communities over the past year, including homes, places of worship, and businesses. Most incidents remain unresolved, contributing to fear among Hindu communities.
These attacks have also drawn international attention, with observers urging Bangladesh’s government to take stronger steps to protect vulnerable groups and uphold religious freedom.
Government Response and Public Concerns
The Bangladesh authorities have not publicly named suspects in Jhunu Sir’s case. This lack of accountability has frustrated local leaders and human rights organizations, who warn that impunity encourages further attacks.
Community organizations have urged increased police presence in minority areas and public awareness programs to promote tolerance and coexistence.
Impact on Hindu Minorities in Bangladesh
The attack on Jhunu Sir’s home highlights the ongoing vulnerability of minorities in Bangladesh. Families now fear for their safety and question their future amid repeated incidents.
“We want peace and justice,” a resident said. “Our children deserve to live without fear.” With repeated attacks and limited accountability, Hindu communities continue to face uncertainty and anxiety.
What Does This Mean for Minorities in Bangladesh?
The burning of Jhunu Sir’s home has reignited worries among Bangladesh’s Hindu minority about their place and protection in society. With repeated incidents of violence and limited accountability, many worry that fear and uncertainty will persist unless decisive measures are taken.
“We want peace and justice,” said a neighbour. “Our children deserve to live without fear.”
