Amid escalating unrest and rising attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina launched a sharp attack on the current Yunus-led interim regime, accusing it of illegally seizing power and allowing “unspeakable torture” against minorities. Delivering her Christmas message, Hasina not only extended festive greetings but also reminded citizens of Bangladesh’s long-standing tradition of communal harmony.
She recalled that the nation, built on the ideals of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, once stood as a “shining example of communal unity.” She said the Awami League government had always worked to ensure peaceful coexistence among people of all faiths in order to fulfil that founding vision.
However, taking a direct swipe at the present administration, Hasina said, “It is sad to say that the current ruling group that has seized illegal power is interfering with the freedom of people of all religions and communities to practice their own religion.”
Her remarks come at a time when the country is grappling with increasing incidents of mob violence. Tensions heightened recently after factory worker Dipu Chandra Das was brutally lynched in Mymensingh following false allegations of blasphemy by a colleague. His body was later hanged and set on fire—an incident that has triggered nationwide outrage and fear among minority communities.
Referring to such incidents, Hasina alleged that non-Muslim citizens were facing “unspeakable torture” under the interim regime. She said the authorities had failed to uphold law and order and accused the government of creating “examples of atrocities such as burning religious minorities.”
Despite the grim atmosphere, Hasina expressed hope that Bangladeshis would “not allow this difficult time to continue.” She said she believed the spirit of Christmas would inspire unity and strengthen interfaith harmony in the country. “May dawn break through the darkness,” she concluded.
Meanwhile, just days after Dipu’s killing, another Hindu man was reportedly beaten to death in Bangladesh, further fuelling concerns over worsening communal violence. According to local media reports, the victim, identified as Samrat, was said to have led a criminal gang named ‘Samrat Bahini’ involved in extortion. He reportedly fled Bangladesh after Hasina’s ouster last year but had recently returned to his village in Hosendanga, Kalimohor Union.
With tensions continuing to flare and political rhetoric intensifying, Bangladesh remains on edge as questions grow over the country’s stability, human rights, and the future of its minority communities.