A prominent group of authors, academics, and civil society leaders has issued an open letter expressing deep concern over the escalating violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. They have urged the Indian parliament to pass a unanimous resolution condemning this wave of communal attacks.
Read letter here:
An Open Letter written by authors, academics and eminent members of the civil society expressing anguish at the ongoing Hindu genocide in Bangladesh.
Please share it widely, particularly with your elected representatives. The world must act to save the beleaguered Hindus of… https://t.co/MFmTuspmxc pic.twitter.com/sspeZ27cPd
— Amish Tripathi (@authoramish) August 12, 2024
The letter, signed by renowned figures including Amish Tripathi, Ashwin Sanghi, and Abhishek Banerjee, highlights the disturbing rise in violence against the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Recent incidents, such as the burning of an ISKCON center in Meherpur and the vandalisation of numerous temples, have exacerbated the situation.
The authors emphasize the historical persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh, particularly during periods of political instability. Since the formation of Bangladesh in 1971, when an estimated 2.5 million Hindus were killed, the community has faced systematic oppression. Reports indicate over 3,600 attacks on Hindus in the country since 2013 alone.
The current political climate in Bangladesh, marked by the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the formation of an interim government, has further destabilized the situation and led to increased attacks on minorities.
The letter calls upon the public to engage with their elected representatives and demands immediate action from the Indian government. Key requests include:
A unanimous parliamentary resolution condemning the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.
Collaboration with international bodies like the United Nations to pressure Bangladeshi authorities to protect Hindus and hold perpetrators accountable.
Provision of humanitarian assistance and asylum options for Hindus fleeing persecution.
The Hindu community in Bangladesh, constituting approximately 8% of the population, has been protesting against the violence. Thousands have sought refuge in neighboring India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed concern for the safety and protection of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.