The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has issued a strong appeal to the Indian government, urging it to take decisive action in ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
The appeal comes in the wake of escalating violence and unrest in the neighboring country, which has seen a disturbing increase in attacks on religious sites, homes, and businesses belonging to minority communities.
In a statement released by Public Relations Head Sourav Kanti Das of the Tripura Chapter of the VHP, the organization expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh.
“Our neighboring country is currently engulfed in a state of chaos and uncertainty after the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The process of subsequent formation of an interim government, is undergoing,” the statement read.
It also mentioned, “In this critical period, India stands by Bangladesh as a true friend, committed to supporting all sections of its society.”
Prime Demands of the VHP
The VHP has outlined several key demands aimed at addressing the plight of minorities in Bangladesh.
First and foremost, the organization calls for the Indian government to engage in diplomatic efforts to ensure the immediate protection of Hindus, Sikhs, and other minorities in Bangladesh.
The VHP also urges global human rights organizations to intervene and press for the safeguarding of minority rights in the country.
Furthermore, the VHP highlighted the need for increased vigilance along the India-Bangladesh border to prevent any illegal crossings that might arise from the current turmoil.
“It is essential that our border security forces maintain strict surveillance to prevent any unauthorized crossings during this period of instability,” the VHP emphasized.
Recent Incidents of Violence
The urgency of the VHP’s demands is underscored by a series of recent attacks targeting minority communities in Bangladesh.
The statement pointed out 22 homes belonging to Hindus were destroyed by fundamentalist groups in the Panchagarh district.
Similar acts of violence were reported in Jhenaidah, where 20 houses were damaged, and in Jessore, where 22 shops were ransacked.
The VHP also noted that in several districts, even cremation grounds have not been spared, with temples and gurdwaras facing significant damage.
“These acts of violence are part of a broader trend of persecution that has left no district in Bangladesh untouched by fear and terror,” the VHP stated.
The organization pointed out that the Hindu population in Bangladesh has dramatically decreased over the years, from 32% at the time of the country’s independence to less than 8% today, largely due to ongoing persecution by extremist elements.
A Call to the Global Community
The VHP’s statement also included a call to the international community to take proactive measures in safeguarding the rights and lives of minorities in Bangladesh.
“The global community cannot remain silent in the face of such atrocities. It is their duty to protect the human rights of minorities and ensure their safety in Bangladesh,” the VHP urged.
As Bangladesh navigates through this period of political transition and social unrest, the VHP expressed hope that a democratic and secular government would soon be re-established in the country.
“We hope that human rights will be upheld, and that the ongoing economic progress of Bangladesh will not be hindered by this crisis,” the organization concluded.
The VHP reiterated India’s long-standing tradition of supporting oppressed communities worldwide and reaffirmed its commitment to standing by Bangladesh as a true friend during these challenging times.
(Tripura, Tripura News)
