Bangladesh: Hindu man dies in garage fire in Narsingdi; CCTV prompts foul-play probe

Death reported in Narsingdi

Bangladesh authorities are investigating the death of 25-year-old Chanchal Bhowmik, a Hindu man who was burnt to death while sleeping inside a garage in Narsingdi. The incident occurred on Friday night and was reported publicly on Sunday, 25 January 2026, with officials saying the circumstances remain under examination.

Firefighters reportedly had to break open the shutter to access the area, but by the time rescue teams reached him, the victim’s body was severely charred. Police say the fire originated inside the shop/garage space where he was sleeping.

CCTV footage raises questions

Investigators said the fire first appeared to be an accident, but CCTV footage from the vicinity reportedly shows suspicious movement near the site. Authorities are now examining whether the blaze could have been caused deliberately or whether it was triggered by an electrical fault.

Police indicated they are checking whether the fire was due to an external factor or an electrical malfunction, and that the investigation is ongoing.

No arrests yet; focus on cause and motive

As of Sunday, no arrests had been made in connection with the case. Officials said the immediate task is to establish the origin of the fire and determine whether any human intervention was involved.

The report comes amid heightened political attention in Bangladesh as the country moves toward national elections scheduled for 12 February 2026. In that context, the incident has also drawn renewed focus on minority safety and community tensions, although investigators have not publicly stated any motive in this case.

What to watch next

• Forensic findings on the fire’s origin (electrical versus accelerant or forced entry).
• Identification of the individual(s) seen in CCTV footage and their movements before the blaze.
• Statements from local authorities on whether the case is being treated as accidental death, arson or homicide.