US Urges Bangladesh to Safeguard Hindu Rights Ahead of Durga Puja.

Hindu Rights in Focus: “US Appeals to Bangladesh to Protect Hindu Community Amid Durga Puja Celebrations.

The statement from the US comes in the wake of increasing attacks on the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina as the Prime Minister and her escape to India in August.

Upendra Bharti | HENB | New Delhi | Oct 8, 2024:: The United States has urged Bangladesh to safeguard the rights of minority communities, particularly Hindus, as they celebrate the significant festival of Durga Puja. This appeal comes amidst escalating attacks on Hindus following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation as Prime Minister and her departure to India in August.

The US statement seeks to ensure the protection of minority rights, especially during the Durga Puja celebrations, which hold great significance for the Hindu community. The recent surge in violence has sparked concerns about the safety and well-being of Hindus in Bangladesh.

“The United States reaffirms its commitment to protecting minority rights globally, and Bangladesh is no exception,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized during his daily news conference. “We urge the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety and well-being of the Hindu community, particularly as they celebrate Durga Puja, their largest festival, amidst threats from religious fundamentalists.”

This revised statement maintains the essence of Miller’s original message while conveying it in a clearer and more concise manner. The US has expressed concerns about the recent surge in violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, with reports indicating over 2,000 incidents of attacks between August 4 and 20. Organizations like Amnesty International have also called for immediate action to protect minority communities in Bangladesh.

India has urged the interim Bangladesh government to ensure peaceful religious events for the Hindu community, following the violent protests that led to the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government. The situation is dire, with over 600 people, including Hindus, losing their lives in the unrest.

Amnesty International has also chimed in, calling on the Bangladeshi authorities to investigate the crimes against Hindu, Ahmadi, and other minority communities. Babu Ram Pant, Deputy Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, emphasizes that the new interim government must guarantee equality, non-discrimination, and protection for all citizens.

The international community is keeping a close eye on Bangladesh, particularly with the Durga Puja celebrations approaching. The Hindu community is anxious about their safety, and it’s essential for the government to take concrete steps to prevent further violence.

Bangladesh extends durga puja holidays amid rising security concerns

Meanwhile, Bangladesh has announced additional holidays for the celebration of Durga Puja, extending the traditional one-day holiday to two public holidays, which will coincide with a two-day weekend, resulting in a total of four days of holidays. This decision comes after the minority Hindu community, comprising around 9% of Bangladesh’s population, faced attacks following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina amidst violent student protests in August.

The government’s move is in response to the Hindu community’s 8-point demand, aimed at ensuring their safety and security during the festival. Abul Kalam Azad, Deputy Press Secretary to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, confirmed the extension of holidays in an interview with ANI.

‘Expect Bangladesh to provide security’: MEA, GOI

India has been vocal about its concerns regarding the safety of minorities in Bangladesh, particularly in light of the recent unrest and attacks on Hindu communities.

On Friday last (04. 10. 2024)The Indian government has conveyed its concerns to the Bangladeshi authorities on multiple occasions, emphasizing the need for protection of minority communities. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India expects the Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of minority groups.

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“Many times, even at the highest level we have said that minorities should be protected there (in Bangladesh).

This is our expectation that the government there will provide security to the minorities. Any incident happening during Durga Puja  is not good,” Jaiswal said.

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__Inputs from PTI, ANI and WION.