Sheikh Mujibur Rahman House Looting: Historic Residence Vandalized Amid Political Turmoil

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman House Looting: The historic residence of Bangladesh's founder, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, located on Road 32, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, has turned into a scene of destruction and looting. The house, already damaged by arson and vandalism, continues to be looted despite warnings from the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus. People have been seen stealing iron rods, bricks, furniture, and even doors, while law enforcement remains largely unresponsive.

Looters Carry Away Building Materials

According to reports from Bangladeshi media outlet ‘Prothom Alo’, looters are taking away anything valuable:
A man was seen cutting and stealing six kilograms of iron rods to sell in the market for food.
A woman collected broken metal scraps to sell at a store.
People searched for whole bricks from the debris to take home.
Protesters even uprooted a coconut tree and looted the coconuts from Mujib’s garden.

One looter was quoted saying, "I never imagined I would get to eat a coconut from Hasina’s house."

Looting Extends to Mujib’s Memorial Museum

The Bongobandhu Memorial Museum, once a six-story tribute to Mujibur Rahman’s legacy, has also been stormed by protesters.
Valuable and rare books were stolen.
Cartons of books were taken away on rickshaws.
Family memorabilia and historical documents have reportedly gone missing.

Sheikh Hasina and India Condemn the Violence

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has strongly condemned the looting. The Indian government has also called the attack unfortunate and expressed concerns over the situation.

Initially, the Yunus-led interim government attempted to shift blame onto Sheikh Hasina, suggesting that her comments on India’s role in Bangladeshi politics provoked the attacks. However, facing mounting pressure, the government later promised strict action against those involved.

Warnings from Yunus Government Have No Impact

Despite official warnings, looting at Sheikh Mujib’s residence has not stopped. Some Dhanmondi residents believe that the government’s response has been weak, failing to restore order or protect historical sites.

A History of Attacks on Mujib’s Residence

August 5, 2023: After Sheikh Hasina’s government collapsed, angry mobs stormed the Dhanmondi house.
February 2025: Exactly six months later, protestors launched another violent attack on Mujib’s residence.
August 15, 1975: Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife, three sons, and two daughters-in-law were assassinated in this very house, making it a significant historical landmark.

The continuous looting and destruction of Sheikh Mujib’s home reflect the unstable political climate in Bangladesh. Despite warnings from the interim government, the law enforcement agencies have failed to control the situation. The desecration of Bangladesh’s founding leader’s home has sparked international concern, with many questioning the government’s ability to maintain order.