Bangladesh Minority Council Slams Hindu Attacks

Bangladesh Minority Rights Group Condemns Violence Against Hindus in Sunamganj

The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, the largest minority advocacy group in the country, has strongly denounced the recent attacks targeting Hindus in the Sunamganj district. The violence, which erupted on December 3, 2024, has left the minority community in fear and distress, highlighting ongoing tensions and the vulnerability of religious minorities in Bangladesh.

Details of the Attack

The attacks occurred in Manglargaon and Monigaon East Gunigram villages of the Doarabazar area. Over 100 Hindu-owned homes, businesses, and places of worship were vandalized, looted, and destroyed. The Doara Bazar Loknath Temple, a spiritual hub for the local Hindu community, was severely damaged. Additionally, the residence and family temple of Guru De, the head of the local Puja Udjakar Parishad, were attacked, resulting in estimated losses of 15 lakh taka.

Reports suggest the violence was instigated by allegations against Akash Das, a 20-year-old from Manglargaon, accused of posting derogatory comments about religion on Facebook. Despite Das being arrested prior to the attacks, mobs targeted the community for hours, forcing many families to flee to safer areas such as Sylhet.

Community Outrage and Official Response

The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council has demanded swift government action, including the immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators. The group has also called for financial compensation, rehabilitation for the victims, and robust measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The incident has drawn international attention, with India expressing concern, particularly regarding the arrest and denied bail of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a spiritual leader within the Hindu community. His case has further exacerbated diplomatic tensions and underscored the plight of minorities in Bangladesh.

Broader Implications

This attack is part of a worrying trend of religious violence against minorities in Bangladesh, raising concerns about the government’s ability to protect these communities. The Unity Council emphasized that such incidents jeopardize Bangladesh’s long-standing tradition of cultural and religious diversity.

Steps Forward

In addition to immediate justice, activists are urging the Bangladeshi government to foster communal harmony through education, stricter laws, and consistent enforcement. They argue that creating a secure environment for all citizens, irrespective of their religion, is vital for the nation’s stability and progress.

The international community and human rights organizations have also been called upon to monitor the situation closely and advocate for the safety and rights of minority groups in Bangladesh.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by religious minorities and the need for systemic changes to address these issues comprehensively