CDPHR Report: Bangladesh’s Political Unrest Spurs Surge in Anti-Minority Violence

The report, unveiled at the Constitution Club of India, documents systemic attacks against religious minorities, particularly Hindus, amid the political turmoil.

The event featured prominent speakers, including:

• Shri Swapan Dasgupta, Former MP and Journalist
• Shri Abhijit Majumder, Journalist and Author
• Shri Deep Halder, Author of Being Hindu in Bangladesh and Journalist

Key Findings:

Escalation of Violence: The report highlights the systematic violence against Hindus and other minorities following the departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Attacks have been reported across 52 districts, with a significant increase in assaults and property damage.

International and Media Reactions: The report criticizes the international response, noting efforts by some media outlets to downplay the attacks or misrepresent them as isolated incidents. It also points to the role of American diplomats and civil society groups in fueling the unrest.

Impact on Minorities: The report stresses the dire situation for religious minorities in Bangladesh, who face increasing threats and attacks. It critiques the interim government’s handling of the situation and calls for international intervention to protect these vulnerable communities.

Future Prospects: The report warns of a bleak future for minorities in Bangladesh due to escalating Islamist influence and government inaction. It urges India to provide diplomatic and humanitarian support to the persecuted communities.

Speakers’ Insights:

• Shri Swapan Dasgupta urged India to act as a guardian for Bangladeshi Hindus and criticized the current policy towards minority protection.
• Shri Abhijit Majumder highlighted the increase in attacks and questioned the effectiveness of India’s current approach to the crisis.
• Shri Deep Halder addressed the rise of “Islamo-trauma” and the failure of global media to accurately report on the plight of minorities.
• Dr. Prerna Malhotra, President of CDPHR, called for decisive international action to prevent further deterioration of the situation for Hindus in Bangladesh.

The CDPHR’s report is a crucial document in understanding the human rights situation in Bangladesh and advocates for urgent measures to address the crisis.