The South Asia Forum for Freedom of Religion or Belief (SAFFoRB) is deeply distressed and saddened by the recent violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh. There were many incidents of violence against Hindu, Christian and Ahmadiyya Communities in Bangladesh.
The Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (HBCUC) reported around 200 attacks against Hindus and other religious minorities across 52 districts, and these incidents are continuing. There were many incidents of looting of Hindu homes and business entities, and a few temples were also damaged.
Another minority community of Muslims were also attacked. The Ahmadiyya Mosques in Ahmadnagar, Jamia (Theological School), and Jalsa Gah (annual convention ground) were attacked, and 70 houses were torched on 6th August 2024. Around 18 Ahmadis were injured. There were incidents of attack against Ahamdis at Mathertek of Dhaka City, Bamnail under Rajshahi district, Chorakhola of Nilphamari district, and Rangtia of district Sherpur. The tribal people and Christian community were attacked and looted. In this situation, the minority communities are living in fear in Bangladesh.
We stand in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh, particularly the students, for their bravery in defending their constitutional rights to justice and equality. Violence against minorities can never be justified under any circumstances.
We strongly demand the present interim government led by Dr Muhammad Yunus to curb the violence and protect the religious minority communities, their homes, and worship places.
The Army and police should arrest and take legal action against those who are responsible for the communal disturbances.
The administration should offer rehabilitation services to all those injured and ensure they return home.
SAFFoRB also urges global governments and the international community to monitor the situation and encourage the present government of Bangladesh to maintain law and order.
SAFFoRB urges the UN Special Rapporteur on FoRB and Minorities and International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance (IRFBA) to do an emergency visit and bring out the situation report.
SAFFoRB expresses solidarity with the religious minorities in Bangladesh and their right to live; the practice of religion is a fundamental right in Bangladesh, as well as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). We urge the global community to voice out and protect these rights.
South Asia Forum for Freedom of Religion or Belief (SAFFoRB) is a regional human rights network that promotes and protects the freedom of Religion or Belief for everyone.