Bangladesh: Hindu man burnt to death in Narsingdi; CCTV prompts foul-play probe

What happened in Narsingdi

Bangladesh police are investigating the death of Chanchal Bhowmik, a 25-year-old Hindu man who was burnt to death in Narsingdi on Friday night. Authorities said he was asleep inside a garage/shop when the fire broke out, and the fire service reportedly broke open the shutter in an attempt to rescue him, but he was found dead.

The incident first appeared to be a fire accident, but investigators have since highlighted CCTV visuals that show suspicious activity around the spot. Police have said they are analysing footage and trying to determine whether the blaze was triggered by an electrical fault or by an external factor.

CCTV leads and the investigation

According to police officials cited in reports, CCTV from the area captures a person moving around near the site, which has pushed investigators to widen the scope of the probe. Police said the fire started inside the shop/garage where Bhowmik was sleeping, and that the circumstances are still being examined.

As of Sunday, January 25, 2026, authorities said there had been no arrests. Investigators are working to identify suspects, verify timelines and confirm whether there was any deliberate act involved.

Why the case is being closely watched

The death has drawn attention in India as well, with reports framing it in the broader context of concerns around minority safety in Bangladesh. Coverage notes that Bangladesh has been facing heightened political and security pressures ahead of its upcoming national elections.

For now, police say the key question remains whether the fire was accidental or the result of a targeted act. The CCTV lead is expected to play a central role in what happens next.