The Plight Of Hindu Minorities In B’desh

HRCBM emphasized the urgent need for a thorough judicial investigation and fair treatment, calling on local and international bodies, including the United Nations Human Rights Inspection team, to ensure impartial investigations into these incidents

In an urgent call for justice, the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) held a press conference on Saturday, November 9, at Dhaka’s Crime Reporters Association Auditorium, drawing attention to the escalating violence and harassment faced by minority communities across Bangladesh.

The event, spurred by recent alarming incidents in Chittagong’s Hazari Lane and beyond, saw HRCBM Convener Adv Lucky Bachhar appeal for immediate intervention to protect these vulnerable groups. Adv Bachhar, speaking on behalf of HRCBM, recounted numerous violent acts targeting minority communities, describing a distressing surge in attacks and intimidation following the political transition on August 5.

He cited over 43 reported cases of rape, gang rape, arson, and looting of minority-owned properties, along with an environment of fear preventing victims from seeking justice. In many cases, those reaching out for police assistance faced administrative indifference or outright refusal, and some were even subjected to wrongful arrests, further exacerbating their situation. The HRCBM emphasized the urgent need for a thorough judicial investigation and fair treatment, calling on local and international bodies, including the United Nations Human Rights Inspection team, to ensure impartial investigations into these incidents. Adv Bachhar stressed the importance of releasing innocent individuals detained under fabricated charges, warning that the inaction risks jeopardizing the future of Bangladesh’s religious and ethnic minorities. “Minorities are being pushed to the margins," he stated, "and without justice, their existence in Bangladesh is under threat. It is critical to uphold the rights of all citizens to build a peaceful and respectful society.”

Representatives from HRCBM and other key figures from across Bangladesh, including Sazen Krishna Ball, Ashish Kumar Anjan, and Lion Sujit Kumar Das, joined the conference to underscore these concerns. They stressed the need for unity and immediate intervention from governmental and human rights bodies to prevent further violence and discrimination.

Talking to Bizz Buzz, Dr Shubhro Chakrabartty, Founder of Bongo Bhashi Mahasabha Foundation, India said, “I firmly believe that the condition of Hindus in Bangladesh is dire, and it is imperative for Prime Minister, Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure their safety and dignity.”

The HRCBM representatives also highlighted the urgency of protecting tribal communities and ensuring that victims receive swift legal recourse, while those responsible for these acts face appropriate penalties. They also demanded greater judicial oversight and better practices for recording complaints at police stations to ensure that the voices of minority communities are heard and taken seriously.

The HRCBM concluded with an appeal to Bangladeshi civil society to take an active role in defending minority rights, emphasizing that the path to peace and national development depends on respecting the dignity and rights of every citizen. Adv Bachhar’s closing remarks underscored a vision of unity: “The future of Bangladesh depends on our ability to safeguard the dignity of all communities. A just and equitable society is crucial for national prosperity.”