Bangladesh Minority Groups Protest Arrest of Hindu Youth, Demand Immediate Release

Hindu, Buddhist and Christian organisations stage demonstrations in Dhaka, alleging religious discrimination and calling for protection of minority rights.

Dhaka, July 18:

Large-scale demonstrations were held in Bangladesh’s capital on Saturday after the arrest of a young Hindu man sparked widespread anger among minority communities. Members of the Bangladesh Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Unity Council gathered outside the National Press Club in Dhaka, demanding the immediate release of Haridas Chandra Tarani Das and accusing authorities of unfairly targeting religious minorities.

According to protest organisers, the case against Das is linked to allegations of financial irregularities. However, community leaders claimed the action was connected to his efforts to support the construction of a large statue of Lord Ram in the Palashbari area of Gaibandha district. They described the charges as baseless and urged the government to ensure justice.

Addressing the gathering, leaders of the Unity Council expressed concern over what they described as a growing pattern of violence, harassment and legal action against minority communities in Bangladesh. They alleged that attacks on temples and incidents targeting Hindus and other religious minorities have increased in recent years, creating fear among affected communities.

The protesters also appealed to the interim administration to conduct an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest and identify those responsible if any misuse of authority had taken place. They warned that failure to address the issue could lead to a wider nationwide campaign by minority organisations.

The demonstration comes weeks after protests were reported over the alleged desecration of a religious image in Gaibandha, an incident that had already heightened tensions among sections of the Hindu community.

Meanwhile, India has previously voiced concern over reports of attacks on minority communities and places of worship in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety of minorities and take effective measures against those responsible for communal incidents.

The latest protests have once again brought the issue of minority rights and religious freedom in Bangladesh into focus, with community organisations calling for stronger legal protection and equal treatment under the law.