PM Modi receives assurance from Muhammad Yunus on protection of Hindus and Minorities

In a notable turn of events during the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 16, 2024, emphasized the protection of Hindus and minorities, stating that Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser to the interim government, has committed to ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all minority groups within the nation. This commitment follows a surge in violence directed at minority communities after the recent removal of Sheikh Hasina’s administration, which occurred amidst extensive protests regarding a contentious job quota system.

The political situation in Bangladesh has been volatile, especially following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation on August 5, 2024. Her exit was triggered by widespread protests concerning the job quota issue, which resulted in considerable unrest throughout the country. Reports have highlighted a disturbing increase in violence directed at the Hindu community, with numerous attacks reported on residences, businesses, and places of worship.

India’s Concerns Over the Protection of Hindus and Minorities in Bangladesh

In response to these events, Yunus engaged with leaders of the Hindu community, assuring them that the interim government would prioritize their security. This assurance was further emphasized during a conversation with Prime Minister Modi, where they addressed the current circumstances in Bangladesh. Modi underscored India’s commitment to a stable and democratic Bangladesh, voicing concerns regarding the safety of minority groups in the neighboring nation.

Modi shared this assurance on social media, stating, “He assured protection, safety, and security of Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh.” This is the first communication between the two leaders since Yunus came to power, signifying that the plight of the minority in Bangladesh regarding safety has become a critical issue.

In his Independence Day speech on August 15, Modi had already expressed his apprehensions about the upheavals in Bangladesh saying, “As a neighboring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there will become normal soon.” He added that the Indian government prioritizes the welfare of Hindus and minorities as it represents the feelings of average Indian citizens.

The discriminations have perpetrated brutal acts; the houses, temples, and even community centers have all been targets of violent attacks. The matter has aroused a lot of concerns at home and abroad, as photos and videos of the vandalism of Hindu temples and attacks on people have emerged. Among them, the Indian Cultural Centre was attacked, and the ISKCON temple was severely affected during the incidences of riots.

The Bangladesh Home Ministry has also come up with some measures to curb the situation, such as the introduction of a toll-free number that people can use to report cases of attacks on religious places. This initiative is intended to enable a fast response to eliminate persons perpetrating violence against minorities.

Yunus, a Nobel prize winner and a noted social entrepreneur, has assured that he will not hesitate to act against the persons involved in acts of violence that have taken place recently. His government has promised to bring back Law & Order and make sure all people are protected within their communities regardless of their faith. During his visit to the Dhakeshwari temple in Dhaka, Yunus came out clear that he would defend the rights of minorities and ensure that those who instigate violence are punished.

Since the world has its eyes on Bangladesh, it is under pressure to rapidly stabilize the situation, and the interim government is no exception. It has also planned to look into the alleged attacks on the minorities, thus underlining the importance of actions towards cases of violence on the vulnerable groups.

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