Dhaka, Dec 22
Leaders of minority organisations in Bangladesh on Monday criticised the Chief Advisor Muhammed Yunus-led government over its failure to stop violence, killings and persecution of minority communities. They said the lack of a proper investigation into violent incidents, and near indifference of authorities had shrouded the country in a blanket of fear, mistrust, and uncertainty, particularly for minorities.
Addressing a human chain organised by the Minority Unity Front in front of the Jatiya Press Club, various figures offered statements over the mass violence and persecution conducted by Islamic extremists against minorities in the country.
Manindra Kumar Nath, joint coordinator of the Minority Unity Front, commenting on the brutal killing of a Hindu factory worker, Dipu Chandra Das, alleged that the government did not even bother to contact the deceased’s family. Das was “beaten and burned to death” in Bhaluka, Mymensingh, by a radical mob on December 18 following now-proven-false allegations of “religious blasphemy”.
Referring to Yunus, Manindra Kumar said, “He claims he will build a humane Bangladesh, but in reality, he is an inhumane chief advisor,” and called on people of all communities to demand his immediate removal, citing the ongoing persecution of minorities and the rise of Islamism ever since he came to power.
Expressing concerns over the upcoming elections in the country, he said that minorities were living in great stress and uncertainty. They doubt about their participation in the Feb 12 polls on the July Charter referendum and 13th national elections.
“This election will be a sham exercise, with no real public representation,” he said.
Subrata Chowdhury, presidium member of Bangladesh Hindu Bouddha Christian Oikya Parishad, said insecurity has gripped Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, indigenous people. “Attempts are being made to spread fear ahead of the election, while those involved are facing no action. Law enforcement agencies are acting as silent spectators,” he alleged.
Prof Nim Chanda Bhowmik, one of the presidents of the Oikya Parishad, said divisive forces and militant extremist groups were being patronised by the state, contributing to ongoing violence and social unrest.
He also alleged that mob attacks on prominent media house buses such as Daily Star and Prothom Alo, as well as cultural organisations such as Chhayanaut and Udichi, were tackled without any effective strategies.
Presiding over the programme, another president of the Oikya Parishad demanded a proper investigation into the killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh and punishment to those responsible, urging the government to take immediate action to stop the continuing cycle of oppression and persecution of religious and ethnic minorities.
Sushmita Kar, coordinator of the Minority Rights Platform, said district administrators and police superintendents should be reminded of their responsibilities to ensure accountability.
After ending the protest, the participants brought out a procession demanding the safety of minority communities and for the cessation of all religious violence.
