Violence Against Hindus Escalates in Bangladesh Amid Attacks on Temples and Minority Communities
Atrocities against minority communities, particularly Hindus, continue to escalate in Bangladesh, with a series of violent attacks targeting Hindu temples and individuals. The recent attacks in Chittagong have forced many Hindus to flee their homes in search of safety.
Sources from India Today report that extremist groups, including Jamaat-e-Islami and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), were responsible for attacking the Radha Govinda and Shantaneshwari Matri Temples. These incidents occurred during a march organized by these groups, calling for a ban on the Hindu religious organization ISKCON.
Police and Army Fail to Act
Eyewitnesses to the violence have claimed that despite the presence of police and military personnel in the area, they stood by without intervening, allowing the attacks to continue unchecked. The area, predominantly inhabited by Hindus, is now witnessing a mass exodus of community members who fear further violence. Since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government in August, over 200 temples have been attacked, and Hindu religious idols have been desecrated.
The Arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Escalates Tensions
The situation has been further inflamed by the recent arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, who faces charges of treason. His arrest sparked widespread protests among the Hindu community, leading to clashes with security forces. ISKCON, which has also come under attack, was recently labeled a “religious fundamentalist organization” by the Bangladesh government. Despite this, a court has refused to impose a ban on the global organization.
India Condemns the Violence and Holds Bangladesh Accountable
In light of the rising violence, the Indian government has condemned the attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs has called on the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus to take immediate action to protect the lives and freedoms of minorities. “India has consistently raised the issue of targeted attacks on Hindus with the Government of Bangladesh,” said a spokesperson. “We urge Bangladesh to take necessary measures to ensure the protection of its minority communities and prevent further escalation of extremist rhetoric.”
As the situation continues to worsen, the international community is closely monitoring the efforts to safeguard the rights and lives of Bangladesh’s minority communities.
