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Key Points

An NGO has raised an alarm at the UN about escalating violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh. The violence surged after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned from office in August 2024. The interim government is being criticised for downplaying the religious intolerance behind the attacks. The UN Human Rights Council is being urged to ensure the safety of minorities and impartial investigations.

Key Points: UN Council Hears Bangladesh Minorities Face Rising Religious Violence

  • NGO reports over 2000 incidents of communal violence in Bangladesh in August 2024
  • Attacks targeted 69 temples and killed at least five Hindus
  • Interim govt criticised for blaming violence solely on political motives
  • UN Human Rights Council urged to pressure Bangladesh for minority protection
1 min read

Geneva: Bangladesh interim government criticised for downplaying religious intolerance

NGO reports 2000+ incidents of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh after PM Hasina's exit, criticising interim govt for downplaying religious intolerance.

"freedom of religion and belief was increasingly under threat - Narender Kumar, Shivi Development Society"

Geneva, September 23

At the 60th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, Narender Kumar of the Shivi Development Society, an NGO, raised serious concerns over escalating violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh, warning that freedom of religion and belief was "increasingly under threat."

Kumar noted that since the political turmoil following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation in August 2024, the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council recorded more than 2,000 incidents of communal violence between August 4 and 20, including attacks on 69 temples.

At least five Hindus were killed during this period.

He highlighted that in the immediate aftermath of Hasina's ouster, hundreds of Hindu homes, businesses, and temples were vandalised across the country, disproportionately impacting the minority community, which constitutes about 8 per cent of Bangladesh's population.

While the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus acknowledged the violence, Kumar criticised its stance of attributing the unrest solely to political motives, saying this downplayed the religious intolerance behind the attacks.

He urged the Human Rights Council to press the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety of minorities, protect religious freedom, and conduct impartial investigations to bring perpetrators to justice.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Very sad to read about attacks on temples and minorities. Bangladesh has always had good relations with India, and we share cultural bonds. The government there needs to take stronger action to protect all citizens regardless of religion.
S
Sarah B
While the situation is tragic, I think we should be careful about how we comment on our neighbor's internal matters. India has its own challenges with minority rights that need addressing too. Let's focus on improving our own house first.
A
Arjun K
2000 incidents in just over two weeks is shocking! The UN must intervene strongly. Religious minorities anywhere deserve protection. Bangladesh authorities need to acknowledge the religious angle and take concrete steps. 🕊️
M
Michael C
As someone who has visited Bangladesh, this is heartbreaking. The common people there are peaceful and welcoming. Hope the interim government realizes that protecting minorities is crucial for national stability and international reputation.
N
Nisha Z
The timing after political change is suspicious. When governments transition, vulnerable communities often suffer the most. Hope Bangladesh finds its way back to peace and harmony soon. Our thoughts are with the affected families. ❤️

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