London
Members of the Hindu diaspora staged demonstrations in parts of the United States and the United Kingdom, expressing concern over reported killings and attacks targeting Hindu and other minority communities in Bangladesh. Protesters called on Bangladeshi authorities to take stronger measures to protect minorities and ensure their safety.
At a rally in Jackson Heights, New York City, members of the Hindu community raised concerns about the security of Hindus in Bangladesh. Speakers urged the authorities to take immediate action against those responsible for attacks and called for stronger protection for minority communities.
One protester said Hindus could no longer remain silent in the face of violence and urged the community to stand up and resist attacks. Another speaker criticised the former Muhammad Yunus-led interim administration, alleging that its approach towards mob violence had encouraged criminal elements. The allegations reflect the protesters’ views and have not been independently established.
Similar demonstrations were held in London, where protesters raised slogans against attacks on Hindus and carried placards demanding protection for minority communities. Messages included calls to “Stop attacks on Hindus” and “Protect Hindu Communities”.
The demonstrations followed the reported killing of four members of a Hindu family in Rangpur city. The victims were identified as retired Rangpur Zilla School teacher Ganapati Chakraborty, 65, his wife Pritilata Chakraborty, 50, their daughter Agami Chakraborty Prarthi, 23, and their 12-year-old son Priyam Chakraborty, 12.
The incident reportedly took place on August 20, with police recovering the bodies two days later on August 22. The deaths have triggered condemnation and renewed concerns among Hindu groups over the security of minorities in Bangladesh.
The protests come amid continuing political debate over the treatment of religious minorities in Bangladesh. Hindu organisations and diaspora groups have repeatedly called for stronger protection, accountability for crimes and measures to prevent further communal violence.
The demonstrations in the US and UK have also brought international attention to the concerns of Bangladesh’s Hindu diaspora, with protesters urging governments and rights organisations to monitor the situation closely and press Dhaka to ensure equal protection for all communities.