The July Monument in the Muktbazar area of Feni’s Trunk Road was set on fire, causing partial damage, in an incident that took place overnight.
Locals discovered the burnt sections of the monument on Sunday morning.
While there was no major structural damage, speculation is rife over whether the fire was a deliberate act of sabotage or an attempt to create fear.
Shopkeeper Faruk said: “When I opened my shop in the morning, I smelled smoke. On approaching the monument, I saw that the floor and letters were burnt. It didn’t take long to realise it was intentional.”
Muhaymin Tajim, Feni district organiser of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and former coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, condemned the incident.
“Some individuals linked to banned activities of the Awami League are carrying out such attacks to instil fear in the public. The administration must act proactively,” he said.
He added: “The July Monument is a symbol of resistance and struggle. Attacking it is an attack on the historical memory of the people.”
Feni Model police station Officer-in-Charge said: “After receiving news of the incident, police visited the site. CCTV footage from nearby areas is being collected. At this stage, we are treating it as a case of vandalism and arson. Whether it is politically motivated and who is involved will only be revealed after investigation.”
Resident Salma Akhter said: “No one knows who came at night and set the fire, but it appears to be a planned attack.”