Bangladesh economist denies religious angle in Dipu Das lynching, calls it 'workplace dispute'

In an exclusive interview with India Today, M. Masrur Reaz, Chairman and CEO of Policy Exchange, Bangladesh, addresses the lynching of Dipu Das and concerns over Hindu safety. Reaz asserts that the lynching was a 'workplace dispute' involving a conspiracy rather than a religiously targeted attack, despite the initial blasphemy accusations. He rejects the narrative of an Islamist takeover, stating that Bangladesh is preparing for a democratic transition with the general election scheduled for February 12, 2026. The former World Bank economist acknowledges law and order challenges affecting all citizens but maintains that recent violence, including the killing of student leader Usman Hadi, is largely politically motivated. The discussion also covers the attacks on media houses like The Daily Star and Prothom Alo.