Hindu Advocacy Group Calls for US Action on Rising Violence Against Minorities in Bangladesh

A Hindu advocacy group has raised concerns over the worsening conditions for religious minorities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, urging the US Congress to take decisive action. Utsav Chakrabarty from HinduAction highlighted the alarming rise in violence and persecution, emphasizing the need for lawmakers to be informed and proactive. The organization is documenting the plight of Hindus in Pakistan and Bangladesh, aiming to raise awareness through immersive exhibits and direct engagement with policymakers. As political changes exacerbate the situation, the group plans to hold a congressional briefing to address these urgent issues. The call for action reflects a growing concern among communities worldwide regarding the treatment of Hindus in these regions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 17, 2026, 11:10 IST

Urgent Appeal for Action

Washington: A Hindu advocacy organization has raised alarms about the worsening situation for religious minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh, urging a stronger response from the US Congress and administration to what they describe as increasing violence and persecution.

During an exhibition at the US Capitol, Utsav Chakrabarty from HinduAction emphasized the group's efforts to inform Congress members and their staff about the plight of Hindus in South Asia, including those in Pakistan and Bangladesh, through engaging exhibits, films, and direct interactions with lawmakers.

Chakrabarty pointed out that Hindus in Pakistan, who constitute only about 1.5% of the population, are the indigenous people of the region and have faced severe issues such as abductions, forced conversions, and trafficking. HinduAction is documenting the experiences of Hindu refugees from Pakistan who have sought safety in India.

"We have individuals working with refugees in India and assisting Hindus in Pakistan to rescue underage girls who are often kidnapped and forced into conversion and trafficking," he stated, describing the Capitol event as a comprehensive initiative aimed at informing policymakers.

Reflecting on Bangladesh's history, Chakrabarty noted that the country separated from Pakistan in 1971, during which approximately 2.8 million Hindus were killed by the Pakistani army and allied radical Islamists from Jamat Islami. He warned that the situation has deteriorated significantly in the past year and a half due to political shifts.

"In the last year and a half, Jamat Islami has gained considerable influence in Bangladesh," he remarked, indicating that the group is well-positioned to potentially win upcoming elections in February. Chakrabarty expressed concern that the recent regime change has led to a marked decline in the conditions for Hindus, with daily reports of violence.

He alleged that Hindus in Bangladesh are subjected to public beatings, humiliation, murder, and even burning, which has sparked outrage and sorrow among communities globally. HinduAction intends to address these issues in an upcoming congressional briefing, anticipated around February 10.

When asked if US lawmakers are adequately addressing the plight of Hindus in Pakistan and Bangladesh, Chakrabarty responded, "No, I don’t think so." He stressed that Congress must take a more assertive and factual stance regarding the abuses faced by Hindu minorities in both nations.

"One reason for the lack of attention from the US Congress is their ignorance," he added, noting that HinduAction's outreach aims to bridge this gap. "As Hindus in America, we believe it is our responsibility to ensure that our lawmakers, the White House, and the State Department are informed about these issues, and we will do everything possible to encourage them to act to protect these communities."