CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh (Diya TV) — The body of Sukumar Das, an 80-year-old Hindu priest, was found hanging from a tree outside his home in Sitakunda upazila, Chittagong district, on Monday. Police have launched an investigation following the shocking discovery, which has raised concerns within the local Hindu community.

Das, who was the caretaker of the Loknath temple in the Madhya Mahmudabad area of Barbakunda Union, was found hanging from a gooseberry tree. Locals suspect foul play, pointing out that his feet were touching the ground, making suicide unlikely. “My father could not have committed suicide,” said Jhantu Das, the victim’s son, speaking to Prothom Alo. “He was murdered and hung from the tree. No one can die if their feet are on the ground while hanging from a rope.”

The police reached the location based on a complaint from the family and the neighbors. Das’s body was sent to Chittagong Medical College and Hospital for a post-mortem to ascertain the cause of death. Authorities are still not saying anything regarding the investigation. The local police have, however, confirmed that they are treating it as a suspicious case.

The priest was renowned in the community for his committed service to the temple, notwithstanding his old age and deteriorating health. Sukumar Das, who had founded the Loknath temple, would perform daily pujas. He would retire early in the night and wake up very early in the morning to continue his religious duties. “He was very committed to his service. This tragedy is heartbreaking for the community,” said a local resident.

He leaves to mourn four sons and four daughters. Many of them are finding it hard to believe in the circumstances that led to his death. “He was a peaceful man. It’s hard to believe someone could do this to him,” one of his daughters said.

The incident happened at a time when the situation is getting much more tense for the Hindus in Bangladesh, as violence against temples and properties in the form of attacks, especially during religious festival times like Durga Puja, has been reported in Bangladesh in recent times. Human rights groups have raised complaints about the ever-increasing trends of violence in the nation, driven by religious fundamentalism, against the minority in the nation and urged proper action be taken by authorities.

As of now, no arrests have been reported and the case is still under investigation.