Amid Bangladesh’s ongoing unrest, a BNP leader’s home was set on fire, killing his 7-year-old daughter and critically injuring two others. The shocking attack raises questions about safety and escalating violence in the country.
7-year-old girl burnt to death as Bangladesh leader's house set on fire
Dhaka: Bangladesh has been shaken by a tragic incident amid ongoing unrest following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Early Saturday morning, the house of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Belal Hossain in Lakshmipur was set on fire by an angry mob, resulting in the death of his 7-year-old daughter and severe injuries to other family members.
According to reports from Daily Star and Dhaka Tribune, protestors attacked Belal Hossain’s residence around 1 AM. The attackers reportedly locked the doors, doused the house in petrol, and set it ablaze while the family was still inside.
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Tragically, 7-year-old Ayesha Akter was burnt to death in the fire. The Officer-in-Charge of Lakshmipur Sadar Model Thana, Md Wahid Parvez, confirmed the incident. “One child was found dead, and three people were rescued with burn injuries,” Lakshmipur fire service official Rajint Kumar told Dhaka Tribune.
Belal Hossain and his two other daughters, 16-year-old Salma Akter and 14-year-old Samia Akter, suffered critical burn injuries. They were transferred to the burn unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where doctors described their condition as critical.
Belal’s mother also confirmed the attack, saying that the assailants had intentionally trapped the family inside before setting the house on fire.
The attack comes amid widespread protests across Bangladesh following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Demonstrators have rallied outside newspaper offices, including Daily Star and Prothom Alo, demanding accountability and justice.
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Hadi’s funeral was held in Dhaka on Saturday, with a massive crowd attending under tight security. Speaking at the funeral, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus said, “You are in our hearts and you will remain in the heart of all Bangladeshis as long as the country exists.”
Authorities in Bangladesh continue to remain on high alert as violence and protests persist in the wake of Hadi’s death. The tragic loss of Ayesha Akter has drawn widespread condemnation, highlighting the growing concern over safety and law enforcement during periods of political unrest.
The incident has intensified calls for stricter protection for civilians and immediate action against perpetrators. Human rights groups and political leaders have condemned the attack, warning that unchecked violence could escalate tensions further in the country.
