A group of expatriate Bangladeshi Hindus is urging the Indian government to seek UN sanctions against Bangladesh to protect Hindu minorities following increased violence and systemic injustices against them. They propose intervention measures, including peacekeeping forces and the establishment of protected zones for Hindus.
A group of expatriate Bangladeshi Hindus, affiliated with the Global Bengali Hindu Coalition, has called upon the Indian government to advocate for United Nations sanctions against Bangladesh. This appeal follows an increase in targeted violence against Hindu minorities after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August. The coalition, comprised of Bangladeshi individuals settled in Europe and North America, is in India to address these concerns with political leaders. They articulated a five-point action plan focusing on the protection of religious minorities and urged for the establishment of “protected zones” within Hindu-populated areas. Additionally, they proposed that India reconsider its support for Bangladesh’s UN peacekeeping contributions, highlighting the perceived failure of the current Bangladeshi regime to safeguard minority rights. Sitangshu Guha, a leader within the expat community, emphasized India’s historical role in aiding Bangladesh’s liberation, stating, “India is our best friend, it can help rescue the 20 million Hindus of Bangladesh.” The relationship between India and Bangladesh has reportedly deteriorated since the regime change, with previous protests leading to an interim administration that downplays the violence against Hindu communities. Guha, alongside other coalition members, points to systemic injustices faced by Bangladeshi Hindus, citing a significant decline in their population since 1951 and ongoing attacks documented in local reports. This dire situation underscores the coalition’s urgent plea for intervention from the Indian government and international community to protect vulnerable groups in Bangladesh.
The current appeal for intervention regarding the plight of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh emerges against a historical backdrop of communal strife and pressuring migration narratives. Since the partition of India in 1947, the Hindu population in present-day Bangladesh has diminished significantly, from 22% to approximately 8% over the decades due to various socio-political factors. The recent political climate, particularly following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amidst widespread protests, has exacerbated the persecution of Hindus and other minorities. This situation has prompted expatriate groups to seek assistance from India, urging for formal international measures to safeguard human rights.
In summary, the expatriate Bangladeshi Hindu group has passionately advocated for the Indian government to take a strong stance at the international level concerning the treatment of Hindus in Bangladesh. Their calls for UN sanctions and specific protective measures for minority communities highlight both the historical injustices faced and the urgent need for global intervention. The group’s efforts illustrate a commitment to safeguarding the dignity and rights of religious minorities amid an increasingly hostile environment in Bangladesh.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
