Massive Minority Protests Erupt in Bangladesh: Demands for Protection and Justice

Thousands of minority Hindu community members, joined by Muslim protestors, staged protests in Bangladesh, demanding protection amid widespread vandalism and violence. They called for special tribunals, parliamentary representation, and a minority protection law. The protests intensify after ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled, with media reporting numerous attacks on minorities.

Thousands of minority Hindu community members staged massive protest rallies in Bangladesh's capital Dhaka and the north-eastern port city Chattagram on Saturday. This marked the second consecutive day of demonstrations, demanding protection amid nationwide vandalism targeting temples, households, and businesses.

The protestors called for special tribunals to expedite trials for those persecuting minorities, allocation of 10 percent parliamentary seats for minorities, and the enactment of a minority protection law. In a major demonstration at Dhaka's Shahbagh, traffic was blocked for over three hours.

Significantly, many Muslim protestors, including students, joined the rallies to express solidarity with the minority communities. Since the resignation and escape of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India, incidents of violence against minorities have escalated, with vandalism and killings reported.

(With inputs from agencies.)