Suvendu Adhikari calls for Israel-like action against extremism to protect Hindus in Bangladesh

Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal, has called for strong actions against extremism in Bangladesh, urging a response similar to Israel's counterterrorism measures. Speaking on the need to protect the Hindu community in Bangladesh, Adhikari emphasized that the ongoing violence from extremist and fundamentalist groups required a firm and decisive approach. He aligned himself with Acharya Ram Bhadracharyaji’s call for action against jihadist and fundamentalist forces in Bangladesh, which have been responsible for increasing persecution of religious minorities, particularly Hindus.

Adhikari pointed to Israel's established strategies for dealing with terrorism and radical elements as a model for Bangladesh. He stated, “Israel knows how to act against these groups, and Bangladesh needs such measures to ensure the safety of its Hindu population.” His comments come in the wake of rising violence, including targeted attacks on Hindu temples, individuals, and communities in Bangladesh. This escalation has drawn international attention, particularly regarding the safety of religious minorities in the country.

Adhikari also referenced the atrocities committed against Hindus during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, where an estimated 30 lakh Hindus were killed by Pakistani forces and local collaborators like the Razakar militia. He compared the current situation, where Hindus are facing religiously motivated violence, to the historic oppression, urging the community to stay resilient as the violence may persist for some time. Adhikari expressed his firm belief that the extremist forces terrorizing Bangladesh would eventually be eradicated.

Furthermore, Adhikari called for international intervention to address the growing extremism in Bangladesh, particularly urging the involvement of the United States and other nations that advocate for human rights. He stressed the importance of diplomatic and political actions to address what he termed the “barbaric and violent” nature of the growing fundamentalist groups. The international community’s role, Adhikari believes, is crucial in curbing the rise of extremism and ensuring the protection of minorities in Bangladesh.