Radharaman Das, Vice President of ISKCON Kolkata, has voiced concerns over the escalating violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, citing Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh’s statement in Parliament regarding 2,200 reported cases of violence in the country this year.
Key Highlights
- Parliamentary Report on Minority Violence:
- According to Singh’s written response in the Lok Sabha, 2,200 cases of violence against Hindus and other minorities were reported in Bangladesh as of December 8, 2024.
- In Pakistan, 112 cases of violence against minorities were reported until October 2024.
- Zero cases of minority violence were reported in other neighboring countries.
- Concern Over Attacks on Temples and Celebrations:
- Das highlighted recent attacks on three Hindu temples in Bangladesh over the last few days.
- He also cautioned the Christian community in Bangladesh to celebrate Christmas cautiously, given threats of potential attacks.
- “We hope that the interim government of Bangladesh will provide enough security so that the minorities can celebrate their festivals without fear,” Das stated.
- Government Response:
- The Indian government has taken serious note of these incidents and shared its concerns with Bangladesh.
- Minister Singh emphasized India’s expectation that Bangladesh will ensure the safety and welfare of minorities.
- During the visit of India’s Foreign Secretary to Bangladesh on December 9, 2024, the issue was reiterated. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka continues to monitor the situation closely.
- Recent Developments in Bangladesh:
- On Saturday, Bangladeshi police arrested a suspect involved in vandalizing Hindu idols in the Shakuair area under the Mymensingh district.
- Officer-in-Charge Abul Khair confirmed the arrest and stated investigations were ongoing.
Broader Context
Bangladesh has been experiencing a tumultuous political climate, intensified by a student-led movement that resulted in the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This period has seen a surge in violence against minorities, including attacks on Hindus, other religious groups, and their places of worship.
India has reiterated its commitment to supporting minority communities in neighboring countries and expects the interim government in Bangladesh to take necessary steps to restore peace and provide security to vulnerable groups.