Sheikh Hasina Voices Alarm Over Attacks on Religious Minorities in Bangladesh

Concerns Raised by Former PM Sheikh Hasina

New Delhi, Nov 13: Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed deep worries regarding the ongoing violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh, highlighting incidents that have targeted their homes and places of worship.

Hasina noted that these events have instilled fear within minority communities, leading many families to feel unsafe in their own country.

“I am profoundly troubled by the situation facing religious minorities in Bangladesh. Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and individuals of all faiths are equal citizens here. They deserve the right to live peacefully, practice their beliefs, and safeguard their families and properties. Sadly, we continue to witness assaults on these communities and their sacred spaces. Many families are left feeling vulnerable,” she remarked.

In reference to a particularly distressing case, Hasina mentioned the situation of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was denied parole by Bangladeshi officials to visit his critically ill mother. He was only granted a brief five-hour release after her passing to attend her funeral.

“I want to highlight a tragic incident. Chinmoy Krishna Das was imprisoned while his mother was gravely ill. His family wished for him to see her before she passed, but that opportunity was denied. It was only after her death that he received five hours of parole to attend her funeral. During my administration, we aimed to foster religious harmony. I wanted every individual, regardless of faith, to feel that Bangladesh was their home,” the former PM stated.

Chinmoy Krishna Das, who also serves as the spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatani Jagaran Jot, remains incarcerated despite having secured bail in two cases, with his release hindered by two additional cases.

He was arrested in Dhaka on November 25, 2024, and subsequently jailed after a Chattogram court denied his bail request. His arrest sparked significant protests from the Hindu community both in Bangladesh and internationally.

India has previously expressed serious concerns regarding Das’s detention, urging Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of Hindus and all minority groups within the nation.

Hasina called on the global community to take note of the rising violence against minorities in Bangladesh.

“The international community must closely monitor the situation. Incidents of violence against minorities require thorough and impartial investigations. Those responsible must be held accountable. Every citizen deserves equal protection under the law. A person’s religious identity should not dictate their safety in their own homeland,” she emphasized.

Additionally, Hasina raised alarms about the worsening law and order situation in Bangladesh, pointing to issues such as extortion, mob violence, and attacks on women and minorities.

She criticized Bangladeshi authorities for focusing on prosecuting Awami League leaders and members while overlooking the daily challenges faced by ordinary citizens.

“Law and order is a significant concern. Extortion, mob violence, and assaults on women and minorities continue to instill fear. People seek security, jobs, and the chance to live with dignity. However, the authorities seem more focused on prosecuting Awami League leaders than addressing these pressing issues. They are neglecting the needs of our citizens,” Hasina remarked.

“A government should be evaluated based on how it treats its populace and its ability to enhance their lives. I believe Bangladesh must shift away from political vendettas and focus on the challenges faced by ordinary people. That is the hallmark of a responsible government,” she concluded.