How are UK lawmakers addressing the plight of Hindus in Bangladesh?
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Synopsis
In a compelling seminar at the House of Commons, UK lawmakers and human rights advocates pressed the government to take significant action against the Yunus-led interim regime in Bangladesh, highlighting the alarming rise in violence against the Hindu minority. This urgent call for action emphasizes the importance of safeguarding religious freedoms.
Key Takeaways
- UK lawmakers are calling for action against the Yunus regime.
- Over 2,000 incidents of violence against Hindus reported.
- The seminar highlighted the need for minority representation in politics.
- Concerns over the radicalization of society in Bangladesh.
- Human rights advocates stress the importance of protecting religious freedoms.
London, July 11 (NationPress) A coalition of prominent UK politicians, human rights advocates, and representatives from various faith communities have called upon the government of Prime Minister Keir Starmer to take decisive action against the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus in Bangladesh, citing a failure to protect the safety and rights of religious minorities in the region.
During a seminar entitled 'Bangladesh at Crossroads: Role of International Community and Diaspora', hosted at the House of Commons by the Conservative Friends of Bangladesh (CFoB), it was reported that between August 5 and September 20, 2024, there were a staggering 2,010 incidents of violence against Hindus following Yunus's ascension to power as Chief Advisor after the removal of the democratically elected Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Violence persisted against Hindus with an additional 174 incidents reported from September 21 to December 31, 2024. From January 1 to June 30, 2025, there were 258 violent incidents against Hindus documented.
The seminar highlighted that under Yunus's rule, law enforcement agencies have become mere bystanders, as evidenced by the annulment of 168 journalist registrations and the imprisonment of 43 journalists over the past 11 months under this “irresponsible, non-transparent, unelected Yunus regime”.
Initiated by CFoB Chair Anjenarra Rahman-Huque and chaired by Bob Blackman, the MP for Harrow East and Chairman of the 1922 Committee, the event underscored the importance of minority representation in Bangladesh's political landscape to achieve justice, peace, and harmony.
“Hindus are living in fear. They are unable to find peace at home, uncertain about what tomorrow holds,” stated Haradhan Bhowmik from the UK's United Hindu Alliance.
Bhowmik also reported a disturbing incident on June 26, where a Hindu woman was assaulted in Muradnagar by a local politician, with explicit videos circulating globally.
Representing the UK Buddhist community, Barrister Prasanta Barua expressed alarm over the radicalization of Bangladeshi society, mentioning the arrest of 36 extremists in Malaysia with alleged ties to ISIS, as reported by Malaysian intelligence.
“This poses a significant threat to Bangladesh if left unchecked,” he warned.
The seminar also noted the visible presence of Harkat-ul Jihad-al Islami (HuJI) operatives in Dhaka, indicating a rise in radical elements, with the Yunus government failing to respond effectively. Barua raised concerns about ongoing assaults on indigenous populations in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Recently, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son of former PM Hasina, echoed his worries about the turmoil, stating, “A Hindu woman was gang-raped in Muradnagar by yet another mob in Bangladesh. For nearly 11 months, mob violence, terrorism, and sexual assaults have escalated nationwide. Since August 2024, Yunus has emboldened the perpetrators of such atrocities, categorizing them as mere political issues.”
“Mob after mob continues to attack, yet they are labeled as pressure groups — groups to which Bangladesh is now a hostage. The identities of their backers are well-known. Yunus and his associates are directly accountable for every instance of rape, not only in Muradnagar but across the country,” Wazed added.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the struggles faced by minority communities in Bangladesh. The recent calls for action by UK lawmakers signify a collective concern for human rights and the importance of ensuring that all communities can live without fear. It is our responsibility to advocate for justice and peace, standing in solidarity with those who are oppressed.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent actions have UK lawmakers taken regarding the situation in Bangladesh?
UK lawmakers have urged the government to take strong measures against the Yunus-led interim regime due to the rising violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
How many incidents of violence against Hindus have been reported?
There have been over 2,000 incidents of violence reported against Hindus in Bangladesh since August 2024.
What are the implications of the violence for religious minorities in Bangladesh?
The violence poses significant threats to the safety and well-being of religious minorities, impacting their ability to live freely and peacefully.
Who organized the seminar discussing the situation in Bangladesh?
The seminar was organized by the Conservative Friends of Bangladesh (CFoB) at the House of Commons.
What measures are being called for to protect religious minorities?
Speakers at the seminar emphasized the need for proportional representation in politics to ensure the voices of religious minorities are heard and protected.
