Idols damaged in Baufal

Unidentified criminals damaged several newly made idols of Hindu gods and goddesses at a temple in Baufal upazila of the district early yesterday, about six weeks ahead of Durga Puja.

They also left a handwritten note at the temple in Paulpara area, threatening people from the Hindu community not to offer their Puja.

The idols including those of Durga, Laxmi, Saraswati and lion were desecrated at the temple, said Barun Paul, president of Paulpara Puja Udjapan Committee.

Rupak Paul, one of the sculptors of the temple, said they left the temple on Sunday midnight and found the idols broken in the morning.

Officer-in-Charge Azam Khan of Baufal Police Station said police are investigating the incident. After investigation, police will take lawful action against the criminals, the OC added.

Baufal Upazila Nirbahi Officer Abdullah-al-Mahmud said they will take necessary steps to avert any further incident.