Bangladesh arrests 4 for recent attacks on minority Hindu community.

Bangladesh Unrest: Hindu Temple, Shops Vandalized Over Facebook Post.

Four arrested over temple vandalism and attacks on Hindus, case filed against 150-170 unidentified individuals.

Sanjit Roy | HENB | Kolkata | Dec 15, 2024:: Bangladeshi authorities arrested four individuals on Saturday in connection with the vandalism of a Hindu temple, along with houses and shops belonging to the Hindu community, in Sunamganj district. The suspects, Alim Hossain (19), Imran Hossain (31),  Shajahan Hossain (20), and Sultan Ahmed Raju (20) were detained in the Doarabazar area, as per a press release from the of the office of Chief Adviser, Bangladesh Interim Government. 

The arrests follow a Facebook post by Akash Das, a local resident, on December 3, which ignited communal tensions in the region. Despite Das deleting the post, screenshots circulated widely, inciting violence. Das was detained by police, but an attempt was made to seize him from custody. For his safety, he was transferred to the Sadar Police Station.

In a retaliation to the incident, an enraged mob attacked and vandalized the Loknath Temple and properties belonging to the Hindu community. Authorities intervened, with police, district administration, and army personnel working together to restore order.

The police have filed a case against 12 named individuals and 150-170 unidentified suspects in connection with the recent communal violence in Bangladesh. An in-depth investigation is underway to apprehend others involved. This incident occurs amidst heightened concerns over communal violence in Bangladesh following political turmoil.  

Bangladesh is experiencing a surge in communal violence, particularly against Hindus and minorities, following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5. This turmoil has strained relations between India and Bangladesh, with the interim government acknowledging 88 communal attacks since Hasina’s departure.

India’s concerns about minority safety in Bangladesh have escalated, prompting Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to urge Bangladeshi leaders to ensure minority welfare. This comes amidst heightened tensions following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina and communal attacks on Hindus.

The White House has also weighed in, with President Joe Biden closely monitoring the situation and warning the Bangladeshi interim government to protect religious and ethnic minorities.

Rights organizations, including the Centre for Democracy, Pluralism, and Human Rights (CDPHR), have raised alarm over the escalating violence against minorities in Bangladesh.

Key Findings:

1. Over 2,000 incidents of violence against Hindus since August.
2. Desecration of 69 temples.
3. Attacks on 157 families.

The CDPHR report, “Bangladesh Minorities Under Siege: A Wake-Up Call for the International Community,” underscores the urgent need for international attention and action to protect Bangladesh’s minority populations.

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__Agency Inputs.