In the wake of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and departure from Dhaka on August 5, a wave of violence has engulfed the country, disproportionately targeting Hindu minorities. Mobs have vandalized and set ablaze infrastructure, including homes and businesses belonging to Hindus, across Bangladesh.
The attacks on Hindu communities have reached alarming levels. On Tuesday, nine houses belonging to Hindus were burned down in the city of Meherpur, including the house of an Awami League leader. The mobs used sticks and bombs to destroy the structures before setting them ablaze.
The violence has extended beyond homes. The famous ISKCON temple in Dhaka was also attacked, with idols vandalized and the temple complex burned down. Similar incidents have targeted Kali temples across the country.
The violence has also claimed the life of a Hindu councillor, Haradhan Roy Hara, who was killed during the protests in Rangpur City.
The Indian government has expressed serious concern over the attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Union Minister of State for Railways and Food processing, Ravneet Singh Bittu, has urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to raise the issue with Bangladeshi authorities.
Bittu, in a written communication to Jaishankar, highlighted the vulnerability of the Sikh community in Bangladesh, noting their small population and the potential for anti-India elements to exploit the situation. He urged the Indian government to ensure the safety of Sikh shrines in Dhaka, including Gurdwara Nanak Shahi and Gurdwara Sangat Tola.
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has also called on the Indian government to take immediate action to protect the safety of Hindus, Sikhs, and other minorities in Bangladesh. The organization claims that “fundamentalists” are targeting these groups in several districts across the country.
As the violence continues, the international community is watching closely, with calls for the Bangladeshi government to restore order and protect the rights of all its citizens.
