Amid attacks, Bangladeshi Hindus stage biggest street protest to date
Thousands of Hindus in Bangladesh took to the streets in major cities across the country to protest attacks on minority communities. The protest on Saturday marked the largest demonstration by the Hindu community. They demanded justice and safety following numerous incidents of violence after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government. Following the downfall of the Hasina government, at least two Hindu organizations in Bangladesh and members of the minority community have reportedly faced over 205 attacks.
Protests erupt in major Bangladeshi cities
Protesters gathered in large numbers in cities including Dhaka, Chattogram, Barisal, Tangail and Kurigram. They blocked the Shahbagh intersection in Dhaka for two consecutive days to protest against attacks on homes, shops, and temples. The protesters held placards reading "August 2024: Save Bangladeshi Hindus. We Want Justice and Safety," while chanting slogans such as "Save the Hindus," "Why are my temples and homes being looted? We want answers," and "Ensure the safety of Hindus."
Protest also held in London
Interim government head condemns attacks
They demanded security for their homes, temples and businesses; arrest of those who perpetrated violence against them; and compensation for vandalism, loot and torture. Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh's interim government, condemned these attacks as "heinous." He questioned, "Are they not people of this country? You have been able to save the country, can't you save some families?" during a session at Begum Rokeya University. He further urged students to protect all Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist families from harm.
Over 200 attacks on minorities since August 5
According to two Hindu organizations — Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council and the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad — there have been at least 205 incidents of attacks on minority communities in 52 districts since August 5 when Sheikh Hasina's government was ousted. As a result of this violence, thousands of Bangladeshi Hindus have been trying to flee to neighboring India.
