Businessman Attempts Self-Immolation in Rajshahi Shop

In a shocking incident in Bagmara, Rajshahi, a local shop owner reportedly attempted suicide by setting fire to his own grocery store. The fire caused extensive damage to the premises and left the businessman seriously injured. Authorities have launched an investigation into the case, which has sent ripples of concern through the community.

The incident occurred on Tuesday evening in Mugai Para market of Auchpara Union. The victim has been identified as Abul Kalam, 53, a resident of Mugai Para village. Following the fire, he was immediately admitted to the Burn Unit of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital in a critical condition.

According to family members, Kalam had made a previous attempt to set fire to his home just a day before the current incident, indicating severe ongoing psychological distress.

Eyewitnesses reported that after arriving at his shop, Kalam poured petrol around the store and then set it ablaze. He entered the shop as the fire spread rapidly. Attempts to escape resulted in severe burns as the flames engulfed his body.

Local residents and bystanders quickly intervened to rescue him and tried to extinguish the fire. The Bagmara Fire Station dispatched a team to the scene, and by approximately 8:00 pm, the fire was brought under control. Unfortunately, the store and its contents were almost entirely destroyed, with preliminary estimates suggesting a financial loss of around BDT 600,000–700,000.

Incident Summary:

Community members revealed that Kalam’s mental health had deteriorated following a road accident some time ago. According to Hafiz Al Asad, head teacher of Mugai Para High School, Kalam had recently been involved in a family dispute over land matters, further exacerbating his psychological stress.

Bagmara Police, led by Officer-in-Charge Saidul Alam, confirmed that initial investigations indicate Kalam himself set the fire. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this alarming act.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as harrowing. One resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “Before igniting the fire, Kalam spread petrol around the shop. Then he entered the flames and was badly burned while trying to escape.” Another, Firoz Ahmed, corroborated that he saw Kalam deliberately set the fire.

Medical staff at the hospital are monitoring Kalam’s condition closely, warning that his injuries are critical and recovery may be prolonged.