A seven-year-old girl died in a brutal arson attack in Bangladesh as political violence escalated following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. An angry mob allegedly set fire to the house of a Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader in Lakshmipur while the family was still inside.
The incident took place around 1 am on Saturday. The victim, Ayesha Akter, was the daughter of BNP leader Belal Hossain. She could not escape the flames and died on the spot. The attack has shocked the nation and raised serious questions about law and order.
Family Trapped as House Set Ablaze
According to officials, the attackers poured petrol around the house and locked the doors before setting it on fire. Belal Hossain, his two daughters aged 16 and 14, and other family members suffered severe burn injuries while trying to escape.
“One child was found dead, and three people were rescued with burn injuries,” Lakshmipur fire service’s Rajint Kumar said.
Police rushed the injured to nearby hospitals before transferring them to the burn unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Doctors described their condition as critical.
Mother Alleges Deliberate Killing
Belal Hossain’s mother confirmed the attack and accused the miscreants of acting with full intent to kill.
“Speaking to the Daily Star, Belal’s mother confirmed the attack and claimed the miscreants had locked the doors of the house and set it on fire after dousing it in petrol.”
Authorities have launched an investigation. Police are trying to identify those involved and determine whether the attack was politically motivated.
Violence Erupts After Sharif Osman Hadi’s Death
Bangladesh has remained tense since the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. His killing triggered massive protests across the country. Students and political supporters took to the streets demanding justice.
Several demonstrations turned violent. Protesters targeted newspaper offices, government buildings, and political figures. Security forces increased deployment in major cities as clashes intensified.
Hadi was laid to rest in Dhaka amid heavy security. Thousands gathered for his funeral, turning it into a show of public anger and grief.
Nation on High Alert as Unrest Continues
The killing of a child during political unrest has intensified public outrage. Rights groups and citizens have condemned the violence and called for immediate action.
The government has urged calm and promised strict action against those responsible. However, fear remains high as tensions continue to simmer.
The Lakshmipur incident stands as a grim reminder of how quickly political unrest can spiral into deadly violence, claiming innocent lives.