Eminent Voices Urge Indian Parliament to Act Against Violence on Hindus in Bangladesh

A prominent group of authors, academics, and notable members of civil society have penned an open letter voicing their profound concern over the escalating violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. They called on the Indian parliament to unanimously pass a resolution condemning this wave of communal violence. The letter's signatories include renowned authors Amish Tripathi, Ashwin Sanghi, Abhishek Banerjee, Rajeev Mantri, and Smita Barooah, along with SC Advocate J Sai Deepak.

The letter highlights a series of troubling events in Bangladesh, including the burning of an ISKCON center in Meherpur and the vandalism of multiple Hindu temples. Videos of rioters celebrating the lynching of Hindus have also surfaced. The signatories noted that these acts are part of a historical pattern of persecution, intensified during periods of political instability. Since 2013, over 3,600 attacks on Hindus have been reported in Bangladesh.

The letter emphasizes the urgency of addressing this situation, urging people to bring it to the attention of their elected representatives. It calls for the Indian Parliament to acknowledge and condemn the violence, and for international bodies like the United Nations to press Bangladeshi authorities to protect their Hindu minority. The letter also advocates for humanitarian assistance and asylum options for persecuted Hindus.

Bangladesh is currently experiencing political turmoil following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. An interim government led by Professor Mohd. Younus has taken charge. Large groups of the Hindu community have staged protests in Bangladesh, London, and Toronto, demanding safety and protection. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also called for the protection of Hindus and all minority communities in Bangladesh.

(With inputs from agencies.)