Modi Calls For Protection Of Hindus Amid Protests And Violence In Bangladesh

Photo: Reuters/Fatima Tuj Johora

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for the protection of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh following a wave of violence that has erupted after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and flight from the country.

Modi emphasized the need for peace and safety for the Hindu community in a social media post on August 8.

The violence has sparked large-scale protests in Dhaka, with hundreds of people taking to the streets on August 9. Protesters, some holding posters demanding the protection of Bangladeshi minorities, chanted slogans of “who are we, Bengali Bengali” and called for peace while blocking a major intersection in the capital.

The unrest has resulted in the death of a school teacher and injuries to at least 45 people, with homes, businesses, and temples of Hindus being targeted.

Hindus, who make up about 8% of Bangladesh’s population of 170 million, have traditionally supported Hasina’s Awami League party. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council reported that at least 52 of the country’s 64 districts have been affected by communal violence since August 5. The council has sought help from Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who recently took charge as the head of a caretaker administration.

In his message, Modi expressed his hopes for a swift return to normalcy in Bangladesh and reiterated India’s commitment to working with Bangladesh to ensure peace, security, and development for both nations.