Violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh decreases significantly
Hindus and other minorities still anxious despite reduced violence in Bangladesh
Attacks on the homes, businesses, and places of worship of religious minorities in Bangladesh have decreased significantly over the past week. However, these communities remain anxious due to sporadic acts of violence in various regions. Hindus, who constitute eight per cent of Bangladesh’s nearly 170 million population, faced targeted attacks after former premier Sheikh Hasina stepped down and fled to India on 5 August following a month-long uprising that resulted in at least 650 deaths.
In the power vacuum that ensued, homes, temples, and businesses belonging to religious minorities were attacked on 5 August in different parts of Bangladesh. Hindu temples were vandalised in Dhamrai in Dhaka, Natore, Kalapara in Patuakhali, Shariatpur, and Faridpur. Homes were attacked in Jessore, Noakhali, Meherpur, Chandpur, and Khulna. About 40 Hindu-owned shops were damaged in Dinajpur.
The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, took office on 8 August, three days after the law and order situation deteriorated, leaving no police presence to protect citizens. Ashish Kumar Sarkar, an assistant professor at Ataikula Madpur Amena Khatun Degree College in Pabna district, said they were unsure whom to contact for help during the period without a government. He mentioned that political parties have since provided assurances, and the presence of police and army patrols has somewhat reassured them.
▪️The situation in Bangladesh has gone from bad to worse since Sheikh Hasina resigned.
▪️The public has gone out of control and is attacking and killing army personnel.
▪️This video will take away your sleep.
East Pakistan | #Bangladesh | #SheikhHasina pic.twitter.com/MElM6cpQTD
— Praveen Meena (@praveenmfacts) August 5, 2024
Despite this, Sarkar pointed out that Hindus continue to face attacks in some areas. He suggested that some attacks were politically motivated due to affiliations with Hasina’s Awami League party, while others aimed at looting homes and businesses. Although the situation has improved, Sarkar noted that fears persist.
Minority community leaders met with Yunus on 13 August to express concerns about ongoing attacks on their properties and places of worship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Yunus to ensure the safety of minorities during his Independence Day speech. On Friday, Yunus spoke to Modi and assured him of the security of all minorities in Bangladesh.
A Hindu businessman in Dhaka, speaking anonymously, said he felt more secure than a week ago. Although concerns remain due to isolated incidents, he acknowledged significant improvement. Hindus celebrate Janmashtami, marking Lord Krishna’s birth, on 26 August. The businessman emphasised the need for a safe environment for people to participate in the festivities.
Despite a decrease in reported attacks, minority community leaders remain worried. Rana Dasgupta, general secretary of the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Oikya Parishad, highlighted forced resignations of minority members from government offices and educational institutions. He received multiple calls about such resignations between 12pm and 3.20pm on Saturday but declined to provide details.
Members of Christian and Buddhist minorities reported less concern, though some Santhal homes were attacked in Dinajpur and Rajshahi districts, and a church was vandalised in Narayanganj. Joyanta Rozario, a drama director, mentioned vandalism of Christian homes in Dinajpur’s Biral area and Rajshahi’s Tanore area, as well as a church in Narayanganj. He felt relatively unworried despite the political instability in Bangladesh.
Noted musician Bartha Barua, a Buddhist who supported the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, acknowledged isolated incidents but attributed them to opportunists. He stated that communal harmony in Bangladesh is “good enough” and does not consider himself a minority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What caused the recent attacks on religious minorities in Bangladesh?
Attacks escalated after Sheikh Hasina stepped down on August 5, creating a power vacuum.
Have attacks on religious minorities in Bangladesh decreased recently?
Yes, attacks have decreased significantly over the past week.
Who is leading the interim government in Bangladesh now?
The interim government is led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.
Have minority leaders expressed their concerns to the new government?
Yes, minority leaders met Yunus on August 13 to raise their concerns.
Are Hindus in Bangladesh feeling safer now?
Yes, Hindus are regaining confidence but still have concerns due to isolated violence.
