Demand for Action Against Extremists Who Vandalized Sunamganj Shrine

Local Correspondent

Devotees of the historic Donka Shah Shrine in Sunamganj have called for justice against extremist Jamaat-Hefazat militants responsible for its vandalism.

At a press conference held today, April 30, at the Sunamganj Press Club, the shrine committee and devotees demanded swift legal action. The event was presided over by Fazlur Rahman, President of the Sunamganj District Chapter of the Bangladesh Supreme Party and a veteran freedom fighter.

Speakers alleged that on February 5, militants bulldozed the shrine, a symbol of communal harmony, and broadcasted the act live on social media. Despite the public nature of the destruction, authorities reportedly remained passive.

The shrine, reconstructed in 1980 with permission from the local administration and donations from individuals like former mayor Nader Bakht, served as a spiritual sanctuary for people of various faiths. Devotees expressed grief over the loss, describing the destruction as a severe blow to communal peace.

Speakers also reported the theft of valuable items from the shrine, including religious texts, prayer rugs, and Qurans, which were desecrated in the attack.

A case (CR 166/2025) was filed on February 24 against four identified individuals and 35 others under multiple sections of the Penal Code. The investigation is ongoing under the supervision of SI Sabbir Ahmed of the district detective police.

Devotees accused the authorities of inaction despite repeated complaints, including directives from the district magistrate last October to take legal measures. Most recently, a formal complaint was submitted to the district administration on April 29, yet no substantial progress has been made. Devotees also reported receiving death threats for pursuing justice.

The press conference, chaired by Acting President Md. Enamul Haque Enam of the shrine committee, saw participation from community leaders and clerics who urged nationwide security for shrines and justice for the perpetrators.

Other speakers included committee members, religious leaders, and community representatives, who collectively emphasized the urgent need for decisive action to protect Bangladesh’s cultural and spiritual heritage.