Hindus in Bangladesh Demand Minority Rights at Massive Chittagong Rally,Government Responds
Thousands of Hindus rally in Chittagong, Bangladesh, demanding minority rights and government protection
Thousands of Bangladesh Hindus rally in Chittagong for minority rights, government grants Durga Puja holiday
Thousands of Hindus gathered on Friday at the historic Laldighi Maidan in Chittagong, Chittagong, to demand increased security and minority rights from the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. The rally, organized by the Sanatan Jagran Manch, saw a large turnout from the Hindu community, who raised concerns over their safety and rights under the new administration. Activists say they plan to continue demonstrating until the government addresses their list of demands.
The Sanatan Jagran Manch outlined eight specific demands aimed at improving the security and quality of life for minorities in Bangladesh. These include the formation of a tribunal to quickly try cases involving crimes against minorities, immediate compensation and rehabilitation for victims, and the enactment of a minority protection law. The community also urged the government to establish a Ministry of Minority Affairs, which would focus on the needs of minority communities, and to build prayer rooms or places of worship for minority groups in educational institutions and hostels.
Read More: Hindus in Bangladesh Demand Minority Rights at Massive Chittagong Rally,Government Responds
Other demands include elevating welfa re trusts for Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian communities to foundation status, which would give these organizations more influence and resources to address community needs. Additionally, the protesters called for the proper implementation of the ‘Property Recovery and Preservation Act’ and the Transfer of Entrusted Property Act, both intended to protect the properties of minority groups. The group also urged the government to modernize the existing Sanskrit and Pali education board, aiming to preserve and promote traditional languages and culture among the Hindu community. A five-day public holiday for Durga Puja was also requested, as the Hindu festival is a significant cultural and religious event.
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Following the rally, Bangladesh’s Environment Minister Syeda Rizwana Hasan acknowledged the Hindu community’s concerns, announcing a two-day holiday for Durga Puja, marking the first time such a measure has been taken in Bangladesh’s history. The government assured the community that their voices were being heard, with hopes that this new holiday would demonstrate a commitment to recognizing Hindu cultural and religious practices.
This rally is one of the largest Hindu gatherings since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August, which brought the interim government to power. The Hindu community has reported a rise in crimes against minorities, including vandalism, looting, and physical harm, under the current administration. Despite assurances from the interim government that minority rights would be protected, concerns remain high within the Hindu community. Activists emphasize that continued neglect of their demands will only lead to further demonstrations, as they push for stronger legal protections and greater government accountability.
The event in Chittagong reflects the growing unease among Bangladesh’s Hindu community and serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by minorities in the region.
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