Bangladesh: Man Held for Keeping Quran in Durga Puja Pandal

A man has been held by Bangladesh Police in connection with the violence that erupted in various parts of the country amid Durga Puja celebrations. Communal tensions were at peak when reports of the holy Quran being desecrated at a puja pandal in Comilla circulated on social media, prompting violence in different parts of the country.

The arrested person has been identified as Iqbal Hossain who was arrested from Cox Bazar region, late on Thursday night. Iqbal is accused of keeping the Quran at the puja pandal. He was arrested by the police after scrutinizing CCTV footages.

At least three people were killed in the communal violence that erupted in the country following the events. Puja pandals and idols were vandalized and there were attacks on the ISKCON temple as well. The communal violence in Bangladesh also prompted response from officials in India. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina also promised stern action against perpatrators.

The Bangladesh Police in Comilla have so far arrested 41 individuals in connection with the violence case.

ALSO READ: Scorsese & Szabo To Receive Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award At IFFI