Rising violence in Bangladesh raised at UN, emphasis on making minorities feel safe

United Nations (The Uttam Hindu): United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of violence in Bangladesh. His spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, said that everyone living in Bangladesh, especially minorities, must feel safe. Responding to questions about violence against minorities and recent incidents of lynching of Hindus, the spokesperson stated that all Bangladeshis deserve security and protection, and the UN is seriously concerned about the violence being witnessed in the country.

He clearly said that whether in Bangladesh or any other country, people who are not part of the majority community must also be fully protected. Expressing confidence in the government led by Muhammad Yunus, the UN spokesperson said efforts are expected to ensure the safety of all citizens. Violence against minorities has reportedly increased following the death of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, associated with the Inquilab platform, who died earlier this month after an attack.

Violent incidents had begun after the fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in August last year and have intensified again over the past two weeks. In recent days, several Hindus with no political links were reportedly targeted by mobs solely because of their religious identity.

The fresh incidents have raised international concern. Last week, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk appealed for maintaining peace and preventing further violence. He warned that revenge and retaliation would deepen social divisions and harm the rights of all communities. Referring to the elections scheduled for February, he stressed the need for an environment where people can participate in public life freely, peacefully and without fear.

Meanwhile, in Washington, two members of the US House of Representatives strongly condemned violence against Hindus and the media in Bangladesh. Raja Krishnamoorthi expressed deep sorrow over the mob killing of Hindu youth Dipu Chandra Das, calling it a dangerous sign of growing instability. Suhas Subramanyam also voiced concern, stating that reports of attacks on Hindus and other minority communities have increased since the recent change in government, including attacks on homes and temples.