2 relatives killed in mob violence while trying to fix wedding date in Rangpur

Local Correspondent

Two relatives lost their lives in a mob attack in Taraganj, Rangpur on suspicion. The deceased are Ruplal Das (40) of Ghanirampur village and Pradeep Das (35) of Baluavata village in Mithapukur.

The brutal incident took place in the Burirhat Battala area of Sawar Union around 9 pm on Saturday.

The families of the deceased and eyewitnesses said that Ruplal Das’ daughter was in talks with Dipjal Das of Shyampur area of Mithapukur for her marriage. The wedding date was supposed to be fixed on Sunday. For this purpose, Pradeep Das left Mithapukur in a van and reached Kazirhat area of Sawar Union without knowing the route. From there, when Ruplal Das called, he went and took Pradeep in the van and headed towards his village.

On the way, some locals stopped them in the Battala area, suspecting them of being thieves. Within a short time, a crowd gathered there and the two men started being beaten up.

At one stage, they were left in a seriously injured condition on the Burirhat High School grounds. Police rescued them around 11pm and took them to Taraganj Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared Ruplal Das dead. Pradeep Das, who was seriously injured, was admitted to Rangpur Medical College Hospital, where he died early Sunday morning.

This sudden incident has cast a shadow of grief over both families. Where a day ago, preparations for a joyous wedding were underway, now there is mourning.

Khokon Das, brother of the deceased Ruplal Das, said, “My grandfather and Pradeep Babu were innocent. They were brutally killed on mere suspicion. We want justice for this murder. Our entire family is now without a shadow.”

Taraganj Police Station OC MA Faruk said, “Two people died in the mob lynching. Preparations are underway for a case in this incident.”

Local civil society and human rights activists say this is not just a murder, but a horrific example of social degradation, where suspicions are not even given the opportunity for investigation. They demand the swift identification of those involved and strict punishment.