Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna has strongly condemned the killing of a Hindu garment factory worker in Bangladesh, describing the incident as a horrific act of violence and urging the international community to speak out firmly against hatred and religious bigotry.

The victim, Dipu Chandra Das, a 27-year-old garment worker, was lynched by a mob in Baluka area of Mymensingh district earlier this month following allegations of blasphemy. His body was later set on fire, according to local media reports. Bangladeshi authorities have so far arrested at least 12 individuals in connection with the crime.

In a post shared on social media, Khanna expressed solidarity with the victim’s family and friends, calling the killing deeply disturbing. “My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family,” the Democratic lawmaker wrote. “We must unequivocally condemn and speak out against these vile acts of hatred and bigotry.”

Khanna, who represents California’s 17th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives, is among the most prominent Indian-American voices in US politics. His remarks add to growing international concern over recent incidents of violence targeting religious minorities in Bangladesh.

The killing of Das has sparked outrage among human rights groups and minority organisations, who argue that allegations of blasphemy are increasingly being misused to justify mob violence. Activists have warned that such incidents create a climate of fear for minority communities and undermine the rule of law.

The United Nations has also voiced concern over the situation. Speaking at a daily press briefing last week, UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said the organisation was closely monitoring reports of violence in Bangladesh.

“We’re very concerned about the violence that we’ve seen,” Dujarric said, responding to a question on attacks against minorities, including the lynching of Hindus. He stressed that people belonging to minority communities must feel safe, adding that governments have a responsibility to protect all citizens equally.

“Whether it’s in Bangladesh or any other country, people who don’t belong to the majority need to feel safe,” he said. “All Bangladeshis need to feel safe, and we are confident that the government will do what it can to keep every single Bangladeshi safe.”

The Bangladeshi government has stated that it is investigating the killing and has assured that those responsible will be held accountable. Officials have also indicated that support will be extended to the victim’s family.

The incident has once again brought international attention to the broader issue of minority rights and religious intolerance in South Asia. Analysts say strong condemnation from global leaders and institutions is critical to deterring further violence and ensuring accountability.

Khanna’s remarks were welcomed by diaspora groups, who said international voices play an important role in highlighting abuses and pressing for justice. Rights advocates continue to call for stronger legal safeguards and swift prosecution of perpetrators to prevent similar tragedies in the future.