Attacks on Hindus Noted with ‘Grave Concern’, Says Bangladesh Government
August 12, 2024 – The government of Bangladesh has expressed its deep concern over recent attacks on the Hindu community in the country. These incidents have raised alarm among the citizens and the international community. The government has vowed to take strict action against the perpetrators. They are committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens, regardless of their religion.
Says-Bangladesh-Government:Attacks-on-Hindus-Noted-with-Grave-Concern
A Series of Incidents
In recent weeks, there have been several reports of attacks on Hindu temples, homes, and businesses across Bangladesh. These attacks have caused widespread fear and panic among the Hindu population, which makes up about 10% of the country’s 165 million people.
One of the most notable incidents occurred in a small village in the Cumilla district. On August 10, a mob of several hundred people attacked a Hindu temple. They damaged idols, set fire to the temple, and looted nearby houses. The incident left the local Hindu community in shock. Many of them had to flee their homes out of fear for their safety.
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Another serious attack happened on August 9 in the Chattogram district. A group of people vandalized a Hindu-owned shop and assaulted the owner. The attackers accused the shop owner of disrespecting Islam, which led to the violence. The victim was seriously injured and is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Government’s Response
The Bangladesh government has strongly condemned these attacks. They have called them “acts of cowardice” and “a threat to the nation’s harmony.” In a press conference on August 11, the Home Minister, Asaduzzaman Khan, stated that the government is treating these incidents with “grave concern.” He assured that the authorities are working hard to find those responsible and bring them to justice.
Khan also mentioned that additional police forces have been deployed in areas with significant Hindu populations. This is to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of the community. The government has also set up a special task force to investigate the recent attacks. This task force will work closely with local law enforcement agencies to gather evidence and track down the culprits.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has also spoken out about the attacks. On August 12, she addressed the nation, urging people to maintain peace and unity. She emphasized that Bangladesh is a secular country where people of all religions should live together in harmony. She promised that her government would do everything in its power to protect minority communities and uphold the law.
International Reaction
The international community has expressed concern over the situation in Bangladesh. Several human rights organizations have called on the Bangladesh government to take immediate action to stop the violence. They have also urged the government to ensure that the attackers are held accountable.
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India, which has a large Hindu population, has also expressed its concern. The Indian government has urged Bangladesh to protect its Hindu minority. In a statement on August 12, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that it is monitoring the situation closely.
The United Nations has also commented on the attacks. The UN Secretary-General’s office released a statement on August 11, calling for an end to the violence. The statement urged all parties to work towards peace and respect for human rights.
Calls for Unity
Leaders from various religious communities in Bangladesh have called for calm and unity. They have urged people not to be swayed by hate and violence. Several Muslim leaders have condemned the attacks on Hindus and have called for peace.
The Hindu community, while shaken, has also called for unity. Many Hindu leaders have asked their followers to remain calm and not to retaliate. They have expressed hope that the government will take swift action to bring the situation under control.
