As many as 97 shrines in Bangladesh have been targeted since the 2024 July protests, with incidents ranging from vandalism to coordinated assaults. The recent attack on spiritual leader Shamim Reza in Kushtia district, resulting in his death, has raised alarm following rumors of religious blasphemy.
Despite nearly 100 such incidents, only 12 cases have been officially registered, leading to minimal progress in investigations. Concerns are mounting over the lack of significant arrests or judicial actions, fueling worries about a culture of impunity surrounding shrine attacks.
Data reveals over 100 incidents of attacks, vandalism, and looting at shrines from August 2024 to April 11 this year, causing public anxiety and insecurity. The Human Rights Support Society reported three deaths and over 200 injuries, including women, in these incidents across Bangladesh.
The Sufism-focused organization Makam documented more than 50 shrine attacks in Dhaka division alone between August 2024 and December 2025. Narayanganj and Dhaka recorded the highest number of incidents, with casualties reported and numerous individuals injured.
Reports indicate that three shrines in Dhamrai upazila near Dhaka were attacked during the interim government’s tenure, with only three cases registered and no arrests made. Analysts attribute these incidents to religious differences, social intolerance, and political influences, emphasizing the need for progress in investigations and prosecutions to combat impunity.
