A significant demonstration took place outside the Houses of Parliament in London on Saturday, as a large crowd gathered to express their outrage over alleged violence against minority Hindus and other groups in Bangladesh. This protest followed the recent resignation and departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Participants in the rally waved Bangladeshi flags and held up signs with messages such as “Protect Our Temples in Bangladesh,” “Hindu Lives Matter,” and “We Want Justice.” The crowd chanted slogans calling for peace and equality amidst a troubling rise in violence.
The protest drew a diverse group, including activists from human rights organizations, members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, and Indian-American Hindu allies standing in solidarity with Bangladesh’s Hindu community.
Unadi, a Bangladeshi protester, voiced his concerns about the vulnerability of Hindus in Bangladesh. He criticized the majority population for preventing minorities from speaking out against injustices, stating, “Our country gained independence in 1971 to ensure peaceful coexistence for all communities. Yet now, we face violence perpetrated by the majority, forcing many to flee.”
Unadi stressed the need for a shift in mindset to achieve peaceful coexistence. He highlighted the contrast between Bangladesh and other nations, where minority protections are upheld, urging for a similar approach in his home country.
A representative from the Bengali Christian Association in the UK called for constitutional reforms, noting that the current constitution designates Bangladesh as a Muslim country despite the contributions of all communities to its independence. She emphasized the need for equal treatment for all citizens.
Another protester decried the ongoing violence, reporting that many minorities in Bangladesh are being driven out of their homes. “For the past several days, our houses have been torched and our communities terrorized. We demand an end to these atrocities and the right to live safely in our own country.”
One protester shared a personal account, revealing that his home in Bangladesh had recently been looted and burned. “My house was destroyed. Just days ago, many people raided and set it on fire,” he said.
The demonstration aimed to raise awareness and prompt action to address the severe issues facing minorities in Bangladesh, highlighting the urgent need for international support and intervention.