Dhaka/New Delhi – In recent days, hundreds of Bangladeshi Hindus have attempted to seek refuge in India following widespread violence targeting their community, which erupted after the recent overthrow of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. According to the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, the violence has affected 45 out of the country’s 64 districts. Reports indicate that Hindu homes, businesses, and temples have been vandalized, resulting in the death of a school teacher and injuries to 45 other individuals.
Hindus constitute approximately 8% of Bangladesh’s population of 170 million, a predominantly Muslim nation. Traditionally, they have been supportive of Hasina’s Awami League party, known for its secular stance, as opposed to the opposition, which includes a hardline Islamist faction. Hasina fled to India on Monday amid mass protests against her perceived authoritarianism, which has fueled resentment towards India among some Bangladeshis. Consequently, many near the border have attempted to escape, but they have encountered obstacles from both Bangladeshi and Indian authorities. Both nations have heightened border security in response to the unrest.
Mohammad Rakibul Hasan, a local government official in Thakurgaon district, reported that between 700 and 800 Hindus attempted to cross into India recently after their homes were attacked and looted. “They returned home after we ensured their safety,” Hasan told Reuters. “Border guard troops are patrolling the area, and no further violence has been reported.”
On Thursday morning, around 300 Bangladeshis gathered at a border crossing near India’s Jalpaiguri district but later dispersed. Indian media depicted Indian border troops monitoring the situation closely. In Narsingdi, approximately an hour from Dhaka, a Hindu goldsmith, who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons, reported being extorted for 1 million Bangladeshi taka (approximately $8,550). The demand was reduced to 100,000 takas after negotiations.
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, who has returned to Bangladesh to lead an interim government following Hasina’s departure, suggested that the attacks on minorities might be part of a larger conspiracy. Yunus emphasized his commitment to protecting all citizens and urged for unity to prevent further attacks.
India, with its significant Hindu majority, has expressed concern over the attacks on minorities, their businesses, and religious sites. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the responsibility of any government to safeguard its citizens and called for a swift restoration of order in Bangladesh, noting its importance for regional stability. Leaders of Bangladesh’s Hindu community have called for solidarity and support from all citizens. Moyna Talukdar of the Bangladesh Hindu Law Reform Council urged the nation to come together and resist the violence affecting religious minorities.
