Tens of thousands of Hindus in Bangladesh took to the streets on Friday, protesting a wave of attacks and harassment against their community. The protests, which come amidst a political upheaval following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, highlight growing concerns about the safety and rights of minority groups in the country.
Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Md. Touhid Hossain, has reassured the international community that the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, is taking all necessary measures to protect its citizens, including Hindus, amidst concerns over alleged attacks on minorities. His comments come in response to recent reports and protests highlighting concerns about the situation in Bangladesh.
Following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh, at least 49 teachers from minority communities were forced to resign due to violence and intimidation. The student-led protests against a controversial quota system resulted in widespread unrest, targeting minority groups and leading to attacks, looting, and vandalism. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has pledged to promote interfaith harmony and ensure safety for all.
Following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government in Bangladesh, reports of widespread attacks on the Hindu minority have emerged. Hindu organizations and community members have reported over 200 attacks across the country, prompting calls for protection and justice. While the interim government has vowed to address the situation, concerns remain about the safety of the Hindu community.
Hindu communities in Bangladesh have launched a new blockade in Dhaka, demanding increased security and protection for minorities following recent violence. Their demands include a dedicated Ministry for Minority Affairs, a minority protection commission, strong laws against attacks on minorities, and reserved parliamentary seats for minority representation. The protests come amidst growing concerns over the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh, with many fleeing to neighboring India. International organizations like the UN and the US have called for an end to the violence and protection for minority groups.
Amidst escalating violence in Bangladesh following the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Hindu minorities are facing targeted attacks. Homes, temples, and businesses belonging to Hindus have been vandalized and set ablaze by mobs. The Indian government has expressed concern and urged the Bangladeshi authorities to protect the safety of Hindus and other minorities.
Greece is facing criticism for its decision to close four Turkish minority primary schools in Western Thrace, a move condemned by Turkey and human rights groups. The Greek government justifies the closures citing a lack of students, but the Turkish minority sees it as an attempt to suppress their cultural identity and education.
The US State Department’s annual human rights report has found widespread abuses in India, including displacement of over 60,000 people in Manipur, attacks on minorities and dissenting voices, and pressure on the media.
During a heated election rally in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi used divisive language that framed politics as a zero-sum game and portrayed the Muslim minority as adversaries. This rhetoric goes against his previous efforts to celebrate India’s diversity and send an expansive message to all citizens. While political debate about welfare and identity is legitimate, the PM’s speech narrowed the possibilities and painted an entire community as an adversary. This is a disturbing step back from his trajectory as a leader who has risen above India’s fault lines.
