Why is the Yunus-led B’desh Government Targeting Minorities?
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Synopsis
The Rights and Risks Analysis Group has condemned the Bangladesh interim government for its actions against religious minorities. This situation raises questions about the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh amidst rising sectarian tensions and government complicity with extremist groups.
Key Takeaways
- RRAG condemns the targeting of minorities
- Government support for extremist groups raises alarms
- Protests against ISKCON reflect rising sectarian tensions
- Judicial actions highlight discrimination against minorities
- Urgent need for justice and protection of vulnerable communities
New Delhi, Oct 28 (NationPress) The Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG), a rights organization based in New Delhi, has vocally criticized the interim government of Bangladesh, headed by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, for unleashing the Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), the Bangladesh Army, and the judiciary against the nation's religious minorities.
On October 23, multiple Islamist groups, supported by Yunus' interim government, organized simultaneous protests demanding a nationwide prohibition on the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), according to the RRAG.
At a protest in Dhaka, students shouted inflammatory chants, labeling ISKCON members as Indian agents and calling for their detention and expulsion from Bangladesh.
On the same day, Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh issued a statement reiterating the unfounded accusations and advocating for ISKCON's ban.
Protests also took place at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque and Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, further escalating sectarian tensions.
RRAG Director Suhas Chakma highlighted a concerning development: “It is alarming that Jashimuddin Rahmani, the former leader of the al-Qaeda-linked ABT, who was convicted for involvement in the murder of blogger Rajib Haider and other terrorism-related charges, was seen at the Baitul Mukarram protest. Rahmani’s presence at extremist rallies signifies the support of Dr. Yunus’ government for radical Islamist factions.”
Moreover, the RRAG reported that the Bangladesh Army attempted to illegally occupy the land of the Arjya Kirti Buddhist temple in Bormachari, Khagrachari district, on October 24 to establish a temporary military camp.
This incident follows the tragic killing of three innocent youths by the Bangladesh Army on September 28 in Guimara, Khagrachari district, while protesting against the authorities' failure to apprehend three Muslim settlers involved in the gang rape of a 14-year-old girl on September 23, stated the rights body.
Director Chakma remarked: “There is mounting outrage over the surge in sexual violence against indigenous girls with impunity, including the gang rape and murder of Chingma Khiyang, a 29-year-old indigenous Khiyang woman in Thanchi, Bandarban, on May 5, and the gang rape of a Tripuri Hindu schoolgirl in Bhaibonchara, Khagrachhari district in July 2025.”
“Religious minorities are experiencing increased discrimination throughout Bangladesh. On October 21, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) suspended student Sreeshant Roy for allegedly offending religious sentiments through his posts on Reddit.
On October 22, the Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate detained Roy under the Cyber Security Ordinance, 2025, illustrating the growing misuse of the judicial system against religious minorities,” Chakma noted.
In a related development, the Assam Police Special Task Force (STF) has apprehended several members and operatives of the Bangladesh-based terrorist group ABT and dismantled their network and modules.
Point of View
We stand with the nation in advocating for the rights of all individuals, particularly religious minorities facing discrimination and violence. The current situation in Bangladesh calls for urgent attention to ensure justice and protection for vulnerable communities. We must uphold the values of inclusivity and harmony, reflecting the true spirit of our nation.
NationPress
01/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rights and Risks Analysis Group?
The Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG) is a New Delhi-based human rights organization that monitors and reports on human rights violations, particularly in South Asia.
What accusations are being made against the Bangladeshi government?
The Bangladeshi government, under Muhammad Yunus, is accused of allowing extremist groups to target religious minorities and suppress dissent.
What incidents of violence against minorities are reported?
Reports include protests against ISKCON, the killing of innocent youths by the army, and rising sexual violence against indigenous girls.
How has the judiciary responded to cases involving minorities?
The judiciary has been criticized for its role in weaponizing the justice system against religious minorities, as seen in the case of student Sreeshant Roy.
What actions have been taken against the ABT?
The Assam Police Special Task Force has arrested members of the ABT and dismantled their networks, showing efforts to combat terrorism in the region.
