A shocking incident of violence has been reported from the coastal district of Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh, where a Hindu man was allegedly murdered in broad daylight after refusing to pay an extortion demand reportedly framed as a “jizya” tax.

The victim, identified as Ganesh Pal, was attacked on Friday (March 7, 2026) in the Pollankata area of Ward No. 5 under Cox’s Bazar Municipality. According to local sources, a group of Islamist extremists had been demanding money from him. When Ganesh Pal reportedly failed to pay the demanded amount, the assailants allegedly attacked him with knives and stabbed him multiple times.

Witnesses said the attack occurred in broad daylight, creating panic among residents in the area. Ganesh Pal was critically injured during the assault and succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.

The brutal killing has triggered fear and outrage among members of the local Hindu community, who say they have long faced intimidation and pressure from extremist elements.

Community representatives have urged the authorities to launch an immediate investigation, arrest the perpetrators, and ensure the safety of religious minorities in the region.

Human rights observers note that such incidents, if confirmed, raise serious concerns about communal violence, religious intolerance, and the security of minority communities in Bangladesh.

Local law enforcement authorities have not yet released a detailed official statement regarding the incident. However, residents and activists are calling for swift justice and stronger measures to prevent further attacks.

The killing has sparked renewed debate about minority rights and the need for stronger protection mechanisms to safeguard vulnerable communities in the country.