Human Rights Watch Exposes Surge in Attacks on Hindu and Ahmadiyya Minorities in Bangladesh
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has issued a new report revealing alarming attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly targeting Hindus and Ahmadiyya Muslims.
Dhaka: Human Rights Watch (HRW) has issued a new report revealing alarming attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly targeting Hindus and Ahmadiyya Muslims. The 50-page report, titled “After the Monsoon Revolution: A Roadmap to Lasting Security Sector Reform in Bangladesh,” highlights a disturbing surge in extremist Islam-driven violence and security force abuses following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.
Table of Contents
Escalating Attacks on Minority Communities
According to HRW, extremist groups have increasingly attacked Hindus and other religious minorities, with many incidents reportedly linked to the communities’ traditional support for Hasina’s Awami League party. These violent acts have escalated since the formation of an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
The report states that between August and October 2024, at least 88 cases of communal violence were reported, with dozens of arrests. Hindu communities have faced widespread vandalism targeting businesses, homes, and places of worship. One notable incident involved the arrest of Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, formerly associated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). The report underscores the growing concern over freedom of expression in Bangladesh, particularly for those critical of the government.
Concerns Over Judicial System and Freedom of Expression
HRW also raised concerns about the judicial system’s role in suppressing dissent. Many lawyers are reportedly too frightened to represent individuals like Das due to threats of mob violence. Additionally, between August and September 2024, Bangladesh police filed charges against over 92,000 individuals, including former ministers and Awami League members, under broad and vague accusations.
Crackdown on Journalists and Press Freedoms
Authorities have been accused of cracking down on press freedoms, with over 140 journalists facing charges related to their reporting on the student revolution, and over 150 press accreditations being revoked. This highlights an ongoing challenge to the protection of journalistic freedom in Bangladesh.
Recommendations for Reform and International Action
In the report, HRW recommends immediate security sector reforms, including ensuring protection for minorities, halting arbitrary detentions, and protecting the rights of journalists. The report concludes with a call for the interim government to urgently revise laws that allow for mass arrests and vague charges targeting critics. HRW also suggests that the United Nations Human Rights Council take action to create a monitoring mechanism to ensure lasting reforms.
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For more information on HRW’s findings, visit the official report at [HRW website].
Key Points:
- HRW reports an increase in attacks on Hindu and Ahmadiyya communities in Bangladesh.
- Attacks are linked to the fall of the Hasina government and the rise of extremist Islam.
- The report highlights issues with arbitrary arrests, suppression of journalists, and lack of protection for minorities.
- HRW urges international action and security sector reforms in Bangladesh.
