The recovery of a Hindu temple priest’s body in Cox’s Bazar has sparked widespread concern regarding the safety of minorities in Bangladesh. 40-year-old Nayan Sindhu, a caregiver and co-priest of the Shivakali Temple, had been missing since April 19. His decomposed body was found hanging from a tree in a remote hilly area three days later. Human rights groups claim he was picked up from his home by two unidentified individuals.

Investigation and Outcry While the police have sent the body for autopsy, they are yet to determine whether it was a case of murder or suicide. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) has strongly condemned the incident, demanding the immediate arrest of the culprits. Adding to the tension, the suspicious death of Bullet Bairagi, a young Hindu customs official in Cumilla, has further heightened anxieties within the community.

Escalating Violence Statistics Despite a change in governance, reports suggest that communal violence remains a persistent threat. According to data from the BHBCUC, over 130 incidents of communal violence were recorded in the first quarter of 2026 alone. The recent deaths have raised serious questions about the effectiveness of security measures for minority groups in the country.

At a Glance

• The body of temple priest Nayan Sindhu was recovered from a tree in Cox’s Bazar after he went missing for three days.
• BHBCUC and other minority rights groups have termed the incident a targeted killing and demanded strict action.
• Four suspects have been detained in connection with the suspicious death of Hindu official Bullet Bairagi in Cumilla.
• Reports indicate a rise in communal incidents in Bangladesh during the early months of 2026.