US Congressman Shri Thanedar Urges Action on Violence Against Hindus in Bangladesh
Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar has called for immediate action by the United States Congress and government in response to ongoing violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. Highlighting decades of persecution, Thanedar accused Bangladesh of failing to protect its Hindu minority since its independence from Pakistan in 1971. He also pointed to recent incidents, including the arrest of a Hindu priest and the murder of his lawyer, as evidence of the deepening crisis.
Persistent Violence Against Hindus in Bangladesh
Speaking on the matter, Congressman Shri Thanedar stated, “The mob destruction of Hindu temples and attacks on the minority community demand urgent action. It is time for the US Congress and government to use every tool at their disposal to stop atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh.”
Thanedar emphasized that the issue is not new, as the Hindu minority in Bangladesh has faced consistent violence and discrimination for over five decades. Since the country gained independence in 1971, incidents of mob attacks, property destruction, and the targeting of Hindu leaders have become recurring events. The recent arrest of a Hindu priest and the killing of his legal counsel further illustrate the hostility faced by Hindus in the region.
US Government Monitoring the Situation
The Biden Administration has also acknowledged the growing concerns surrounding Bangladesh’s security situation. On Thursday, White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby addressed the press, stating, “The security situation in Bangladesh has become increasingly challenging following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. The United States is working closely with the interim government to strengthen law enforcement and enhance their capacity to address these challenges.”
Kirby’s comments reflect the U.S. administration’s awareness of the worsening situation, as it monitors developments in Bangladesh. However, many, including Congressman Thanedar, believe that more concrete actions must be taken to protect minorities and ensure accountability for the violence.
Calls for Bipartisan Support
Thanedar is not alone in his advocacy. Fellow Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has joined the effort to raise awareness about violence against minorities in Bangladesh. He urged Senator Marco Rubio, who has been nominated for a key diplomatic position, to address the attacks against Hindus as part of his future responsibilities. Krishnamoorthi’s call for bipartisan support signals the growing momentum within Congress to address the issue.
The recent escalation in violence has prompted widespread concern among Indian-Americans, many of whom have taken to the streets to protest the attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh. Several large marches have been organized to demand justice and action, showcasing the deep connection between the diaspora community and the plight of Hindus in Bangladesh.
Historical Context: Violence Since 1971
The violence against Hindus in Bangladesh is rooted in a long history of religious tensions. Following its independence from Pakistan in 1971, Bangladesh pledged to establish a secular state. However, over time, Hindu minorities have faced increasing marginalization. Attacks on temples, forced conversions, and discrimination in access to resources and opportunities have created an environment of fear for Hindus in the country.
Shri Thanedar pointed out that the current situation represents a continuation of this troubling history. He noted that the Sheikh Hasina government had been criticized for its inability to curb violence against minorities. The power vacuum following the fall of her administration has only exacerbated the challenges faced by Hindus, with mobs feeling emboldened to commit acts of violence with impunity.
A Call to Action
Thanedar’s remarks underscore the urgency of addressing this crisis. He called for the U.S. to leverage all possible diplomatic and economic tools to ensure the safety and security of Hindus in Bangladesh. This could include sanctions, increased humanitarian assistance, or collaboration with international organizations to monitor and address human rights violations.
He further emphasized the importance of holding Bangladesh accountable to its commitments to protect religious minorities. “It is imperative that we, as a global community, stand against the persecution of minorities anywhere in the world. The Hindu community in Bangladesh deserves justice and protection,” he said.
Growing International Attention
The situation in Bangladesh is drawing increasing attention from the international community. Human rights organizations have expressed concerns about the deteriorating conditions for religious minorities in the country. Reports of widespread violence and targeted attacks have fueled calls for intervention from global powers, including the United States.
In recent weeks, advocacy groups and members of the Indian-American community have urged U.S. lawmakers to prioritize the issue. Marches and demonstrations organized by Indian-Americans highlight the strong sentiment among the diaspora regarding the need for action. Many believe that sustained international pressure could push Bangladesh’s government to take meaningful steps to protect its minorities.
