US Congressman Urges Bangladesh To Protect Hindu Minority

US Congressman Brad Sherman has issued a strong statement urging Bangladesh’s interim government to take immediate steps to protect its Hindu minority. This comes amid escalating violence, protests, and allegations of harassment targeting minority communities following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Call for Investigations

Sherman called for a thorough investigation into recent rights violations, involving:

• Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council: To assess abuses during the unrest.
• United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR): Volker Turk, to investigate killings and other violations.

He emphasized the government’s responsibility to act decisively, stating:
“Bangladesh’s interim government has an absolute obligation to protect its Hindu minority and address the protests of thousands of minority Hindus.”

Background of the Unrest

The recent turmoil in Bangladesh was triggered by the arrest of Hindu spiritual leader Chinmoy Krishna Das on October 25. The arrest was based on allegations of sedition after he reportedly hoisted a saffron flag above the national flag during a rally in Chittagong.

• Complaint Details: A local politician filed the complaint on October 31, accusing Das and others of disrespecting Bangladesh’s national flag.
• Legal Developments: Das’s bail hearing has been deferred to January 2, 2025, leaving him in jail.

Growing Minority Protests

The arrest of Chinmoy Das has sparked widespread protests by Hindus and other minority groups across Bangladesh. These communities are demanding justice and an end to targeted attacks.

International Appeal for Action

Sherman’s involvement has drawn global attention to the plight of minorities in Bangladesh. He emphasized:

• The urgent need for leadership from the interim government to curb violence.
• The importance of protecting vulnerable communities to uphold human rights.

Next Steps

As protests and international scrutiny mount, Bangladesh faces significant pressure to act. The deferred hearing of Chinmoy Krishna Das on January 2, 2025, could serve as a critical moment in this unfolding crisis.