What began as mass protests in solidarity with Palestine quickly devolved into targeted acts of violence and vandalism across Bangladesh. In cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet, demonstrators took to the streets voicing their outrage over the Israeli offensive in Gaza. However, many protests escalated beyond slogans—culminating in direct attacks on international fast food chains and global retail outlets.
In This Article:
Several prominent franchises, including KFC, Bata, Domino’s, and Puma, were vandalised or looted. Demonstrators accused these brands of having ties with Israel or representing Western capitalist interests.
List of Attacked Global Brands
Widespread videos and local reports confirm the following outlets were affected:
- KFC: Outlets ransacked in Dhaka and Chittagong, with images showing broken windows and looted interiors.
- BATA: Stores targeted for their alleged “Zionist ties” as per some protesters’ claims.
- DOMINO,S AND PUMA: Franchises vandalised by mobs who accused the brands of having Israeli affiliations.
A viral video shows chaotic scenes of mobs storming into outlets, chanting pro-Palestinian slogans while destroying property.
Religious Sites Not Spared — ISKCON Temple Targeted
Beyond commercial outlets, religious minorities have also been affected. In Nasirnagar, the ISKCON temple reported a major theft where six brass idols were stolen. Local police confirmed the break-in and have launched an investigation.
Community leaders called it a “deliberate act to stir communal tension” amidst the already volatile atmosphere.
Protestors Justify Looting as “Resistance”
Several protestors interviewed by local media claimed their actions were symbolic resistance against corporate supporters of Israel. The targeted outlets were allegedly chosen due to real or perceived links to Israeli businesses or Western alliances.
While there’s no direct evidence connecting many of these brands to Israeli funding, the perception alone was enough to trigger violence.
Government Scrambles to Restore Order
The Sheikh Hasina administration has come under pressure for its slow response in containing the violence. As unrest spread through university campuses and city centers, the police struggled to manage the surging crowds.
Riot police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) units were deployed in key areas to stabilize the situation. Protestors clashed with security forces in several locations, resulting in injuries and detentions.
Though exact numbers are not confirmed, multiple arrests have been made in connection with the looting and temple thefts.
No Official Damage Estimates Yet
As of now, no government body has released an official estimate on financial losses. However, shop owners and franchise managers have publicly decried the incidents as a huge economic setback, especially for local operators of international brands.
Calls for compensation and stronger protective measures are growing louder among business communities.
Ripple Effects on Religious Minorities
The desecration of the ISKCON temple has sparked concern among Hindu and other religious minority groups, who say they feel increasingly unsafe. While temple thefts are not unprecedented in Bangladesh, the timing of this act—amid politically and religiously charged unrest—has raised alarm bells.
Community groups are urging the government to provide additional protection for places of worship and minority-owned businesses.
Rising Concerns from Civil Society
Bangladeshi civil rights activists and legal experts are warning that unchecked violence under the guise of protest could jeopardize democratic values, investor confidence, and social harmony. There is also growing apprehension that extremist elements are infiltrating peaceful demonstrations for their own agendas.
Though no international human rights organization has officially commented in the provided sources, domestic voices are demanding accountability and transparency in handling the crisis.
Moving Forward — A Dangerous Precedent for Protest Culture
Bangladesh now finds itself grappling with a complex situation—balancing its people’s right to protest against real incidents of lawlessness and religious disharmony. The attacks on both commercial and religious institutions suggest a dangerous precedent where protests can be hijacked for personal or political gain.
The coming days will be pivotal for the Sheikh Hasina government to demonstrate control, justice, and inclusivity—before things spiral further.
By – Nikita
