Suvendu Adhikari urges global Hindu unity amid attacks on minorities in Bangladesh

Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal, has urged the global Hindu community to unite in response to the ongoing attacks and persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. The call for unity follows reports of escalating violence, discrimination, and human rights violations against religious minorities in Bangladesh. Adhikari emphasized that Hindus must come together, setting aside political differences, to protest the situation and demand justice for the affected communities.

A major focus of the ongoing unrest is the case of Sannyasi Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent figure associated with ISKCON. Das was arrested in Bangladesh, and his bail hearing has been delayed multiple times. The most recent delay occurred due to the absence of a lawyer, with the next court date set for January 2, 2025. ISKCON reports that many individuals who have supported Das in the legal proceedings have been implicated in various charges and several have been arrested. The legal battles surrounding Das' case have intensified amid the broader context of growing violence against Hindus.

The persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh has been characterized by various forms of violence, including physical attacks, forced conversions, and social exclusion. Several Hindu religious leaders, including sannyasis, have been subjected to threats, arrests, and, in some cases, death threats. In addition to these threats, there have been reports of property destruction targeting Hindu-owned businesses and homes. Legal actions against Hindu community members have been increasing, with reports of arbitrary arrests and harassment in connection with protests or religious activities.

As the situation continues to develop, there are increasing calls for international intervention. Suvendu Adhikari, in his statement, requested the involvement of the International Human Rights Commission to address the violations taking place in Bangladesh. There have been calls from various organizations and individuals urging the Bangladeshi government to take immediate action to protect religious minorities and ensure their rights are safeguarded under the law. The international community has expressed concern over the treatment of Hindus and other minorities in the country, particularly as the situation has worsened in recent months.