Dhaka
Durga Puja celebrations in Bangladesh will be observed in a subdued manner this year due to attacks on the Hindu community. Following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, communal tensions increased, with reports of over 2,000 attacks against Hindus in recent months. Many Hindus feel unsafe and have decided to reduce traditional festivities. Ranjan Karmakar from the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council stated that this year’s observance would not include celebrations, as threats have been made against organizers.
Basudeb Dhar, Chairperson of Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, reported that the government assured safety, but the community chose to limit activities to rituals. Protest banners will be displayed to call for justice and the establishment of a Minority Protection Act. From August 5 to August 20, 2,010 incidents of violence against Hindus were documented, including serious crimes.
An organizer mentioned that some committees received anonymous letters demanding large sums of money to allow celebrations without disruption. Concerns about security during Durga Puja have increased as radical groups oppose the festival. Despite government promises of protection, doubts remain regarding safety for Hindus beyond the festival days. The hope for peaceful celebrations exists, but uncertainty lingers among the community.
