A significant outpouring of Hindu protesters took to the streets across Bangladesh in response to the recent surge in violence against their community on Saturday. The demonstrations came in the wake of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and her subsequent flight to India. Major rallies were held in Dhaka, the capital, and Chittagong, the nation’s second-largest city, drawing lakhs of participants.
Widespread Protests and Violence
The protests were sparked by an alarming increase in attacks on minority Hindus since the downfall of Hasina’s government on August 5. Over 205 incidents of violence have been reported across 52 districts, leaving hundreds of Hindus injured and numerous homes and businesses destroyed. Additionally, several Hindu temples have been vandalized, and at least two Hindu leaders affiliated with Hasina’s Awami League party have been killed.
In response to the escalating violence, thousands of Bangladeshi Hindus have sought refuge in neighboring India. Demonstrators are demanding immediate action, including the establishment of special tribunals to expedite trials for perpetrators of minority persecution, the allocation of 10 percent of parliamentary seats to minorities, and the implementation of a dedicated minority protection law.
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In Dhaka, the protest at Shahbagh was particularly notable for its scale, with demonstrators blocking traffic for over three hours. The rally saw participation from thousands of Muslims, including students, who expressed solidarity with the Hindu community’s cause.
In Chittagong, the historic Cheragi Pahar Square was the focal point of another massive gathering, with reports suggesting over seven lakh attendees.
International Solidarity
Similar demonstrations have also taken place abroad, with rallies held in the United States and the United Kingdom, underscoring the global concern over the situation in Bangladesh.
Interim Leader’s Condemnation
Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, condemned the violence against minority communities, labeling it as “heinous.” Yunus, a Nobel laureate, called upon the student protesters to protect Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist families from harm.
“Are they not the people of this country? You have been able to save the country; can’t you save some families?… You must say – no one can harm them. They are my brothers; we fought together, and we will stay together,” the 84-year-old Yunus emphasized, highlighting the urgent need for national unity and protection for all communities within Bangladesh.
