The aftermath of the Sheikh Hasina government’s fall in Bangladesh on August 5th has been marked by widespread violence and unrest, particularly targeting minority communities. According to the Bangladesh Chhatra Oikya Parishad, the student wing of the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Oikya Parishad, at least 49 teachers belonging to minority communities were forced to resign after facing physical assault and intimidation during the student-led protests.
The protests, which began in mid-July, were sparked by a controversial quota system for government jobs. These protests quickly escalated, leading to widespread chaos and violence across the country.
Sajib Sarkar, coordinator of the Bangladesh Chhatra Oikya Parishad, reported that 19 of the forced resignations were later reversed. However, the organization highlighted the continued vulnerability of religious and ethnic minorities, who have been subjected to numerous attacks, looting, assaults on women, vandalism of temples, arson attacks on homes and businesses, and even killings since the government’s fall.
The violence has particularly targeted members of the Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian communities. Data compiled by the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council and the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad revealed at least 205 incidents of attacks on minority communities across 52 districts.
In response to the escalating unrest, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who is leading the interim government as Chief Advisor, held a reception for the country’s Hindu community leaders. Yunus emphasized his commitment to promoting interfaith harmony and building a Bangladesh where everyone can freely practice their faith without fear.
The violence has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with over 230 people killed in incidents across the country since the fall of the Hasina government. This brings the total death toll related to the anti-quota protests to over 600.
The situation in Bangladesh remains volatile, with concerns for the safety and wellbeing of minority communities persisting. The interim government faces the urgent task of restoring order, addressing the grievances that sparked the protests, and ensuring the protection of all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.
