Bangladesh’s interim government has confirmed 88 incidents of communal violence targeting minorities, mainly Hindus, following the August 2024 political upheaval. 70 arrests have been made, but concerns remain regarding the safety of minority communities, prompting India to voice its apprehensions.
Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain acknowledged that violence has occurred against minorities in the country, but contested the assertion that it solely targets Hindus. He urged Indian media to reconsider its coverage, asserting that the government is committed to the safety of all citizens.
During a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden expressed concerns about the safety of people in Bangladesh and the future of its democratic institutions. Both leaders shared concerns over recent developments in Bangladesh, particularly the need for restoring law and order and ensuring the safety of minorities, especially Hindus.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus discussed the situation of Hindus in Bangladesh during a phone call. Yunus assured Modi of the safety and security of all minorities in the country, while Modi reiterated India’s support for a stable and democratic Bangladesh.
Spiritual leader Sadhguru has condemned the violence against minorities in Bangladesh, urging immediate action and detailed documentation of the atrocities. He emphasized the importance of cultural ties and civilizational connections beyond national borders, calling on India to act on behalf of the affected communities. The interim government in Bangladesh, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has taken steps to address the situation, including establishing a hotline to report attacks and reaching out to the Hindu community. Meanwhile, a murder investigation has been launched against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her administration in relation to a police killing during recent unrest.
Bangladesh’s interim leader, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has condemned attacks on minority communities following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. He urged students to protect minority families and called for national unity, while the Chief Justice and other top judges resigned amidst ongoing protests for judicial reform.
India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed worry over attacks against minorities in Bangladesh, following recent unrest in the country. He highlighted incidents of temples and businesses being targeted, while the Bangladesh Army has stepped in to provide support to minorities through dedicated contact numbers.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of targeted violence against minorities in the country, attributing it to the misuse of religion. He highlighted the vulnerability of minorities despite constitutional protections and called for a resolution to safeguard their rights. Asif also pointed out that many victims are targeted due to personal vendettas, not genuine blasphemy allegations. The statement comes amidst ongoing concerns over the persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan.
Amid recent negative incidents concerning minorities in Pakistan, a heart-warming Instagram video showcasing a Marathi family running a vada pav stall in Karachi has emerged, offering a glimpse of the country’s multifaceted cultural landscape. The video has received a positive response on social media, with reactions highlighting the diversity and inclusivity that exists in Pakistan. Despite a turbulent history, Karachi remains home to a sizable Marathi-speaking community, with a vibrant culture and deep roots.
BJP’s Minority Morcha district president Usman Ghani has been expelled from the party for six years for criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent remarks in Rajasthan. Ghani had expressed disappointment with Modi’s comments regarding Muslims and said that they would cost the party three to four Lok Sabha seats in the state. He also claimed that the Jat community was angry with the BJP and had voted against the party in several constituencies.
