Bangladeshi-American groups are urging US President-elect Donald Trump to intervene in Bangladesh to protect minorities. They are concerned about the caretaker government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, which took power after a student agitation ousted the elected Sheikh Hasina government in August. Furthermore, the groups are calling for Trump’s help in securing the release of Iskcon monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was arrested by the Yunus government and is seriously ill.
Concerns Over Minority Rights
Bangladeshi American Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians are alarmed by the threats facing minorities in Bangladesh. They describe the situation as an “existential threat” from Islamist forces. In a letter to Trump, they urgently called for action to end ethnic and religious persecution in Bangladesh. Additionally, they suggested linking Bangladesh’s participation in UN peacekeeping missions to its treatment of minorities.
Trump’s Support for Bangladesh’s Minorities
This plea for action aligns with Trump’s previous criticisms of Bangladesh. During his presidential campaign, he condemned attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, calling it “in a total state of chaos.” Moreover, in his Diwali message, he denounced the violence against Hindus, Christians, and other minorities, who were being attacked and looted by mobs.
Release of Chinmoy Krishna Das
The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCOP) is now demanding the immediate release of Chinmoy Krishna Das. He was arrested on November 25 at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on sedition charges for allegedly disrespecting Bangladesh’s national flag during a rally in Chittagong. His bail petition was denied, and his case is scheduled for a hearing on January 2.
Chinmoy Krishna Das’s Health Condition
In addition to his legal troubles, the Bangladesh Shommilito Sanatan Jagaran Jote (BSSJJ) claims that Das is seriously ill and not receiving proper medical care in prison. He has been hospitalized twice. As a result, the group has called for public prayers for his recovery. On January 1, they are asking people to pray in temples across Bangladesh for his health.
Risks of Radicalisation in Bangladesh
The BHBCOP also warned that Bangladesh could become more radicalized, which would have far-reaching effects. Consequently, they called for new laws to protect minorities, including a Minority Protection Act. The act would recognize minorities and indigenous groups, create safe enclaves, and establish a separate electorate for minorities. Additionally, it would introduce laws against hate crimes and hate speech to protect religious practices and cultural heritage.