In Dhaka, hundreds of Bangladeshi Hindus demonstrated against a spate of targeted violence that has escalated following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The protests highlight increasing attacks on minority communities, which have intensified since Hasina’s resignation and flight to India earlier this week.
Hindus, constituting about 8 per cent of Bangladesh’s 170 million population, took to the streets carrying posters that read “Save Us,” and chanting “Who are we? Bengali, Bengali.” They blocked a major intersection in the capital, calling for peace and an end to the violence.
The attacks have seen Hindu temples, homes, and businesses vandalised, and several Hindu leaders associated with Hasina’s Awami League party have been killed. The violence has intensified since Hasina’s departure, which followed widespread protests against her administration’s controversial quota system for jobs.
Protesters gathered in Dhaka’s Shahbagh, demanding safety and protection from the ongoing attacks. The unrest began after Hasina resigned and fled to Bharat on August 5, following significant public outcry over her government’s policies.
#Breaking: #Bangladesh #Hindus have taken to the streets in #Shahbagh #Dhaka to protest the attacks on their person, properties, and places of worship since Aug 5. In fact, the attacks were sporadically taking place even during the peak of #violence centering the #QuotaMovement. pic.twitter.com/XqCGk0OYdC
— Bangladesh Watch (@bdwatch2024) August 9, 2024
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s interim government on Thursday. Yunus, aged 84, took office at a ceremony held at the Bangabhaban presidential palace. His appointment came amid the continued violence and instability in the country.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to Yunus and expressed hope for a swift return to normalcy. PM Modi asserted Bharat’s commitment to working with Bangladesh to ensure peace, security, and development for all communities. He specifically highlighted the importance of safeguarding Hindus and other minorities.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the racially motivated attacks and incitement to violence against the Hindu community, emphasising a strong stance against such acts.
The ongoing protests and international responses highlight the urgent need for measures to restore peace and protect minority communities in Bangladesh amid the political turmoil.
