Is Dhirendra Shastri Right to Call for Vigilance Over Lynching in Bangladesh?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Dhirendra Shastri condemns violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.
- Calls for Indian government intervention to protect minorities.
- Highlights the need for Hindu unity and vigilance.
- Addresses criticism from Bhupesh Baghel regarding his charitable initiatives.
- Event in Bhilai sees significant public attendance.
Raipur/Bhilai, Dec 26 (NationPress) The renowned spiritual speaker and leader of Bageshwar Dham in Madhya Pradesh, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, affectionately known as Bageshwar Baba, has fiercely criticized the recent violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, labeling the events as unfortunate and alarming, and cautioning about the possible extinction of the minority community in that nation.
Upon his arrival in Raipur for a five-day Hanumant Katha event at Jayanti Stadium in Bhilai, which will continue until December 29, Shastri described the current religious dialogue as auspicious while addressing international threats.
After the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, another Hindu individual was attacked by a mob in Bangladesh’s Rajbari district late on December 24. The victim, identified as 29-year-old Amrit Mandal alias Samrat, was brutally beaten at Hosaindanga Old Market in Pangsha Upazila and succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident.
Shastri pointed to the recent spate of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, emphasizing the lynching of Amrit Mandal and the earlier murder and incineration of Dipu Chandra Das due to blasphemy allegations, amidst a backdrop of escalating unrest.
"This marks the second occurrence of such violence," Shastri remarked, urging Hindus throughout India to stay alert and unite. "If we do not extend our support now, the concept of Hindu unity will be meaningless."
He called on the Indian government to take decisive action, advocating for measures to deport illegal immigrants, particularly addressing the situation of Rohingya refugees, while also proposing safe passage for persecuted Bangladeshi Hindus seeking refuge in India.
"Should no significant actions be taken, the identity of Hindus in Bangladesh could be severely endangered - they may face forced conversions or worse," he cautioned, stressing that the situation serves as a warning for India.
Shastri also responded to accusations made by former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel, who has previously criticized him regarding issues like superstition and religious beliefs.
Baghel questioned Shastri's decision to establish a cancer hospital if he claims to possess spiritual powers to heal. In his defense, Shastri clarified that he does not accumulate donations.
"All offerings we receive are directed towards social welfare - assisting in marriages for underprivileged girls, constructing cancer hospitals, and other charitable endeavors," he stated.
He added a philosophical perspective: "What can be achieved through divine intervention should be pursued that way, but medical necessities require medical solutions - hence our initiative to establish hospitals. Spirituality is not a cure-all."
The spiritual leader's statements come amid rising tensions between India and Bangladesh over minority protection, with demonstrations in various Indian cities advocating for the safety of Hindus. His event in Bhilai has attracted large crowds.