Khairul Alam ; Dhaka – A deep sense of insecurity prevails among the Sufi community in Bangladesh as most shrines (Mazars) and Dargahs remain closed nearly two years after a series of coordinated attacks.
Despite the transition from the interim government to a new political landscape, the heritage sites of Sufi saints continue to face threats, with law enforcement showing little interest in investigation or protection.
Alarming Statistics of Violence
According to the ‘Center for Sufi Heritage’ and police records, 138 attacks occurred on Sufi shrines, Khanqahs, and cultural festivals (like Lalon Mela) between August 5, 2024, and April 16, 2026. Out of these, 99 attacks specifically targeted Mazars. The violence has resulted in at least four deaths—including a spiritual leader (Peer)—and over 1,500 injuries.
Recent Brutality in Kushtia
The latest incident occurred on April 11, 2026, in Daulatpur, Kushtia, where Peer Abdur Shamim was hacked and beaten to death following rumors of “un-Islamic activities.” While a case has been filed naming 19 suspects, including a local political leader, no arrests were made as of April 16.
Police Inaction and Legal Stagnation
The investigation into these hate crimes has been criticized for being “sluggish.” Data shows that:
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Attacks spanned across 24 districts, with Dhaka and Chattogram being the worst hit.
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Out of 138 incidents, only 13 cases were filed nationwide.
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To date, only one case (in Noakhali) has seen a formal charge sheet submitted by the police.
Fear Silences Devotees
In many regions like Mymensingh, Rajshahi, and Sylhet, victims have refrained from filing cases due to fear of further retaliation. In Rajbari, a horrific incident saw attackers exhume and burn the remains of a deceased individual named Nurul Haq. In Sherpur and Narayanganj, shrines remain in ruins as administrations have yet to provide security clearances for reopening.
Impact on Heritage
The fear has reached the capital, Dhaka. Even prominent sites like the Shah Ali Bagdadi (Rh.) Mazar in Mirpur and the Golap Shah Mazar in Gulistan have seen a significant drop in visitors.
Traditional food distribution for the poor (Langar) has been suspended in several locations, and Sufi followers describe feeling “unsafe” in their own places of worship.
Public health experts and researchers warn that without immediate state intervention and accountability, Bangladesh’s long-standing Sufi heritage and communal harmony remain at grave risk.
Summary Table: Status of Attacks (Aug 2024 – April 2026)
| Region | Total Attacks | Cases Filed | Status |
| Dhaka Division | Highest | 2 (approx.) | Most shrines closed/low footfall |
| Chattogram | 28 | Minimal | Fear of local pressure |
| Kushtia | Recent Murder | 1 | Investigation ongoing; no arrests |
| Noakhali | 1 | 1 (Charge sheeted) | Police arrested 25 suspects |