Arif Salam was violently assaulted because of his faith. csi
Salam, 55, earns his livelihood as a bicycle mechanic. Whenever opportunities arise, he openly shares his Christian faith with others. His commitment to spreading the Christian message has made him a respected witness among local believers. But not everyone is happy about Salam’s evangelism.
The lay preacher recalls that on the afternoon of June 5, 2026, a group led by a local Islamist arrived at his home and questioned him about why he did not perform Namaz (Islamic prayers). In response, Salam says he calmly explained that he is a follower of Jesus Christ.
Immediately after making this statement, Salam was physically assaulted by the group whose leader he identified as belonging to Jamaat-e-Islami, a radical political party associated with the global rise of political Islam.
Psychological trauma
In addition to physical injuries, including to his head, the attack left Salam severely traumatized. He and his family are now living in a state of fear, anxiety, and insecurity.
Upon learning of the attack, local partners of Christian Solidarity International (CSI), together with a local pastor and volunteers, took immediate steps to assist and support Salam and his family.
As a first step they ensured that the preacher received urgent medical care. They also liaised with the local police administration to ensure that the incident was properly investigated.
The local partners further engaged legal counsel and gathered the necessary documentation to support court proceedings against those responsible.
CSI’s partners request prayer for Salam and his family during this difficult time, as well as for all Christians who face persecution because of their faith.
Stronger protection required for religious minorities
In February, Bangladesh elected its first new government after a nationwide uprising overthrew the Sheikh Hasina administration in 2024.
The transition followed months of violence against minorities, intimidation and political upheaval across the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people. Many religious minorities historically supported Hasina’s Awami League because it claimed a secular orientation. This support contributed to the violence against them.
The electoral victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in February prompted cautious hope among Christian leaders who were relieved that Jamaat did not gain power.
But the party that was banned under the Hasina government nonetheless made a dramatic political comeback. The Islamist alliance led by Jamaat secured 77 parliamentary seats and close to one-third of the popular vote, making it the main opposition to the BNP.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has made public commitments to democracy, human rights and safety for every citizen. He now faces a test. Will his government move to provide stronger protection for religious minorities? The persistence of attacks by Islamists highlight the scale of the challenge.
Christian Solidarity International will continue to support religious minorities in Bangladesh and their right to religious liberty.
