258 Bangladesh Citizens Urge Immediate End to Blasphemy-Linked Violence

Dhaka (The Uttam Hindu): Hundreds of Bangladeshi citizens have demanded an immediate end to widespread attacks, legal cases, arrests, and mob violence carried out in the name of alleged “blasphemy.” Local media reported this growing public concern.

This demand comes amid anger and protests following the arrest of Baul singer Abul Sarkar on accusations of hurting religious sentiments, and the subsequent attacks on his followers in Manikganj district.

According to a joint statement signed by 258 citizens, religious extremism has been “rising again” in Bangladesh since the protests last July. The signatories said a particular group is projecting itself as the “sole guardian” of Islam and has been taking action across the country.

Quoting the Bengali daily Prothom Alo, the statement mentions that more than 200 shrines have been demolished, many people have been labeled apostates or blasphemers, dead bodies have been exhumed and burned, Bauls and Fakirs have been forcibly shaved, women have been harassed over clothing and movement, and music, dance, theatre shows even sports and village fairs are being disrupted. The statement says these actions show an intent to suppress those with different lifestyles or beliefs.

The signatories criticized Muhammad Yunus’s interim government for failing to take effective steps to stop the violence, stating that “blasphemy” accusations are repeatedly used as a weapon behind these attacks.

The statement adds that even after 18 months, the government appears to be silently tolerating religious fascism to secure its position. This, it says, is disappointing for democratic citizens and is paving the way for defeated extremist forces to return. It also warns that Bangladesh risks being viewed globally as a country leaning toward religious radicalism.

The citizens condemned Abul Sarkar’s arrest and demanded his immediate release.

Those who signed the statement include teachers, writers, researchers, artists, journalists, human rights defenders, cultural activists, and Baul followers.

Under Yunus’s interim government, Bangladesh has seen rising attacks on minorities, growing mob violence, and widespread arrests of political opponents developments that have triggered global concern and criticism from human rights organisations.