A Hindu priest has been killed in Bangladesh. The body of Nayan Dash, 35, a shebait (priest) at the Nag Panchami Hindu temple in Khurushkul union, Cox’s Bazar, was discovered Wednesday, April 22, hanging from a tree in a remote hilly area—three days after he went missing.
The Hindu priest’s body bore severe burn marks and was found with a cloth tied around his neck. Local residents searching the hills east of the temple made the grim discovery around noon.
Hindu Priest Murder Suspected
A temple associate alleged the Hindu priest was killed before being hanged, citing visible injury marks on his neck. This account contradicts initial appearances of suicide, fueling suspicion of a deliberate killing.
“Nayan left home on April 19 after being called by unidentified individuals,” said Jony Dhar, general secretary of the Cox’s Bazar Puja Udjapan Parishad, citing the family’s statement. “He never returned.”
Investigation Into Hindu Priest’s Death
Cox’s Bazar Sadar Model Police Station OC Mohammad Chhamiuddin confirmed the body was recovered and sent for autopsy. “The cause of death cannot be determined until we receive the post-mortem report,” he said.
Police are reviewing security footage and working to identify those involved in the Hindu priest’s death.
Extremism Concerns
Community members have raised concerns that Islamic extremist groups may be responsible for killing the Hindu priest, though authorities have not confirmed this link. The incident reflects ongoing security concerns for religious minorities in Bangladesh.
