Christians in Bangladesh 'anxious' after bomb attacks on churches, catholic school

Though no casualties have been reported, the incidents have spread fear among local Christians, who now worry about their safety and the growing pattern of intimidation against minority groups in the Muslim-majority nation.

A series of attacks

The first attack took place on October 8 at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Dhaka — one of the oldest churches in Bangladesh, founded in the 17th century.

The second wave of attacks occurred on November 7, when assailants targeted St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. Joseph’s School and College, both prominent Catholic institutions in the capital.

Police have not yet identified those responsible. However, officials believe the incidents were deliberate acts meant to instil fear.

“These attacks were certainly aimed at terrifying people,” said Dhaka Police spokesperson Muhammad Talebur Rahman, confirming that investigators are probing whether the incidents are connected.

According to Rahman, the attackers who targeted the cathedral arrived on a motorbike, hurled a crude bomb inside the school campus, and fled the scene before authorities could respond.

Fear and anxiety grip Christian minority

The attacks have caused deep unease among Bangladesh’s small Christian minority, which makes up less than one percent of the population.

Many churchgoers have expressed growing fear over the rise in targeted violence.

Speaking to AFP, a 25-year-old member of the local parish described the growing sense of dread.

“There’s an eerie feeling everywhere. Anxiety grips many of us while going to church,” the individual said on condition of anonymity.

The Holy Rosary Church, one of Dhaka’s most historic and active Catholic sites, often sees hundreds of worshippers attending Sunday mass.

Following the attack, the church has reportedly stepped up its own security measures while urging congregants to remain calm.

Authorities launch probe

Dhaka Police have increased surveillance around major churches and schools, deploying additional patrol units in the capital. Investigators are analysing CCTV footage and local intelligence reports to identify possible links between the October and November incidents.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility, though authorities suspect that the attacks were designed to create panic rather than cause mass casualties.

“We are treating these as acts of terror, even though no one has been injured,” a senior police official told AFP, adding that law enforcement is “leaving no stone unturned” to prevent further attacks.

Growing concern over minority safety

The latest attacks have reignited fears of rising intolerance toward minority communities in Bangladesh.

Human rights observers have noted a worrying trend of violence and intimidation targeting Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians in recent months.

While the government in Dhaka has publicly condemned religious violence and promised stronger action, minority leaders say they still feel vulnerable.

Local Catholic officials have urged authorities to ensure the protection of places of worship and schools.

Religious leaders have also called for unity and peace, emphasising Bangladesh’s long history of communal harmony.

“Faith must never become a reason for fear,” one priest said following Sunday’s mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral.

A climate of uncertainty

Though the crude bomb attacks caused no injuries, their psychological impact has been profound.

Many Christians in Dhaka now attend church services with heightened apprehension, while schools linked to religious institutions have tightened entry and exit protocols.

The Bangladesh Christian Association and other community groups are expected to meet government officials this week to discuss security concerns and demand concrete assurances.