Hindus in Bangladesh demand justice amid increasing violence and threats

The Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajot (BJHM), a coalition of 23 Hindu organizations, announced on Tuesday that 278 Hindu families have experienced severe violence and vandalism in 48 districts since Sheikh Hasina stepped down as Prime Minister on August 5.

In a press conference at the National Press Club in Dhaka, BJHM leaders released data detailing the attacks on the Hindu community from August 5 to August 12. Despite having lived in Bangladesh for generations, they said the community remains in fear.

The BJHM, which describes itself as “politically neutral,” presented seven demands to the interim government led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, calling for urgent action during this period of uncertainty.

“The repeated incidents of vandalism, looting, arson, land grabbing, and threats to leave the country against the Hindu community are not just attacks on individuals but on the Hindu faith itself,” said Palash Kanti Dey, spokesperson and executive secretary of the alliance.

Dey mentioned that concerns were shared with Brigadier General (ret.) M. Sakhawat Hossain, the interim government’s Home Affairs Advisor, who promised to address the issue in the next Cabinet meeting.

The alliance’s demands include a comprehensive judicial inquiry into recent communal attacks, the establishment of a Minority Protection Act and Commission, the repair of damaged Hindu temples and homes at public expense, a swift trial and public disclosure of investigation results, a report on minority persecution since 2000, a three-day holiday during the Durga Puja festival, and the creation of a Minority Ministry.

BJHM President Prabhas Chandra Roy criticized the pattern of attacks against Hindus whenever there is a government change. “Though such incidents were less frequent in the past, they have become more common recently. We want to live safely in this country where we were born and have rights,” he said.

Earlier this week, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus visited the Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka and assured community leaders that upholding human rights and freedom of speech is a top priority for his administration.

“Everyone has equal rights in this country. There should be no discrimination. Please be patient and judge us based on our actions. If we fail, then critique us,” Yunus said during his visit.