Following the recent ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year regime in Bangladesh, the nation’s Hindu minority is grappling with a wave of violence and insecurity. The interim government, led by Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus, faces mounting pressure to address the escalating attacks on minority communities, particularly Hindus, who comprise nearly 8% of the population.
In the days since Hasina’s resignation, reports of vandalism, looting, and threats against Hindu households and temples have surged. Many Hindus, who participated alongside Muslims in the nationwide quota protests that led to Hasina’s ouster, now find themselves targeted in the ensuing chaos. Fears of a return to anti-minority sentiment are growing, with many Hindus expressing a sense of betrayal and abandonment by the new government.
Chaya, a Hindu student from the Khulna region, recounted the trauma her family has faced, describing how their home was attacked multiple times after Hasina stepped down. “I have been crying all night, and no authorities are here to help,” she said, using a pseudonym due to fears of reprisal. Her story echoes the experiences of many others in the Hindu community who have been forced to flee their homes.
Despite assurances from Prime Minister Yunus that minorities will be protected and compensated, the violence has left deep scars. Dip Sarkar, another student from Khulna, who actively participated in the protests, expressed his disillusionment. “I did not join the protests as a Hindu, but now my community is under attack,” he said. Sarkar attributes the violence to radical elements capitalizing on the instability, further exacerbating the tension between different religious groups.
The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council reported over 200 attacks on minorities across the country in the immediate aftermath of Hasina’s departure. In response, thousands of Hindus have attempted to flee to India, seeking safety from the violence. The Indian government has since formed a special committee to liaise with Bangladesh authorities to ensure the security of minorities, including Hindus.
As Bangladesh navigates this turbulent political transition, the protection of its minority communities remains a critical concern. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging the interim government to take swift and decisive action to prevent further violence and uphold the rights of all citizens.
