Journalist Habibur Selim Arrested in Bangladesh for Allegedly Inciting Violence Against Hindu Community

August 3, 2025 – Bangladesh –

Local journalist Habibur Rahman Selim has been arrested by the Bangladesh Army for allegedly inciting attacks on homes belonging to the Hindu minority community in Gangachara Upazila, Rangpur. Selim, a reporter for the regional daily Dainik Juger Alo, was detained from his residence in Gokulpur Chawpara around 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, according to police authorities.

The arrest comes in the wake of communal unrest that began on July 26 after a Hindu teenager from Chhayani Balapara was accused of posting derogatory remarks about Prophet Muhammad on Facebook. Following the arrest of the teenager, violence erupted in the Aldadpur area. One of the homes belonging to the boy’s relatives was attacked the same night. Over the following days, the situation escalated, with groups reportedly looting and vandalising homes in Hindu neighbourhoods across the Betgari union. Several houses were destroyed, and at least one police officer was injured during the clashes.

Authorities stated that Selim was present during the attacks and is alleged to have encouraged the assailants to act against the Army. His identity was reportedly confirmed through audio and video recordings, which led to his detention. After interrogation, the Army handed him over to the Gangachara police, where he was formally arrested and later produced in court.

A case was filed on July 29 by resident Rabindranath Roy against 1,000 to 1,200 unidentified individuals over the attack. Six people, including Selim, have so far been arrested in connection with the case, and all remain in jail. The charges relate to vandalism and incitement during a sensitive period of intercommunal tension.

The arrest of a journalist in such a context raises questions about the delicate balance between national security, communal harmony, and press freedom, especially in volatile regions where the media plays a vital role in documenting unrest and government accountability.

References –

https://www.daily-sun.com/post/817578

https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/9e1444312db1

https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/national/journalist-arrested-for-instigating-violence-in-rangpur