A peaceful protest, organized by a coalition of over 300 members from various organizations including the Viswa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Hindu Sayam Sevak Sangha (HSS), Vishnu Temple, Satya Sai Foundation, and Geeta Ashram, took place today in front of the Embassy of Bangladesh.
The protest was held to raise awareness of the ongoing atrocities against Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh. A student movement in Bangladesh has been upturned into a racial pogrom against an indigenous and well-serving citizenry. We demand for an immediate cessation of the same using a positively-inclined state machinery. And a demand for justice to those aggrieved and restoration and continuation of rights equal to any other citizen of the country.
Participants gathered to voice, albeit silently, their concerns regarding the recent incidents of vandalism of Hindu shrines, as well as the tragic reports of massacres, rapes, and brutal murders targeting Hindus and other minorities. The gathering aimed to shed light on these serious human rights violations and call for urgent action to ensure the safety and dignity of affected communities.
The event began with a silent march in front of the Bangladesh embassy, symbolizing the peaceful yet unwavering demand for justice. Representatives from the coalition were granted access to the embassy, where they met Mr. Hasnat Ahmed, Officer-in-Charge, Bangladesh Embassy presently and handed over a Memorandum addressing these critical issues to the Bangladeshi authorities.
“We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Bangladesh, highlighting the need for immediate action to protect minority rights,” said Mr. Susheel Saraff, Patron Viswa Hindu Parishad, Mr. Jay Shankar, Secretary of Viswa Hindu Parishad, added “It is our responsibility to advocate for peace and justice, and we hope that our message resonates with the authorities.” Mr. Dinesh Pande, representing Geeta Ashram mentioned that “We hope to receive a reply on positive action taken before there is any more bloodshed, vandalism and arson”
The coalition urges local and international communities to join in advocating for the safeguarding of human rights and the protection of all minorities in Bangladesh. The protest underscores the need for clear accountability and proactive measures to prevent further violence against vulnerable communities.
The Ongoing Violence and Atrocities Against Hindus and Minorities in Bangladesh: What We Know So Far
Tensions escalated in Bangladesh after a school teacher was killed, and at least 45 others were injured during attacks on Hindu homes, businesses, and temples in the Muslim-majority nation. The violence erupted after Hasina, aged 76, fled the country on August 5th amid widespread protests. Her departure marked the end of a 15-year rule fraught with allegations of human rights abuses and was triggered by violent clashes between anti-quota protesters and security forces, which left over 450 people dead.
The Hindu community, which represents approximately 8% of Bangladesh’s population of 170 million, has traditionally supported Hasina’s Awami League party. However, the recent unrest has left many Hindus feeling vulnerable and targeted.
The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council has reported that at least 52 of the country’s 64 districts have been affected by communal violence since August 5th. In response, the Council has sought assistance from Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, who assumed leadership of a caretaker administration on Thursday. In an open letter released on Friday, the Council expressed deep concerns, stating that there is “deep apprehension, anxiety, and uncertainty among minorities across the country.”
The United Nations has also weighed in, urging for an end to the violence and condemning any acts of racial incitement. Meanwhile, thousands of Bangladeshi Hindus have been attempting to flee to neighboring India to escape the violence. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed for the “safety and protection” of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh, emphasizing the need for peace in the region.
The silent protests by the Hindu community in Thailand highlight the growing international concern for the plight of Bangladesh’s minority groups and call for swift action to restore peace and stability.