Human Lives Human Rights: In light of recent violent incidents targeting Hindu and other minority communities in Bangladesh, human rights advocates are calling for immediate steps from the interim government. Following a statement from Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, who emphasized the importance of human rights and freedom of expression, Babu Ram Pant, Deputy Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, stressed the need for concrete actions to ensure justice and protection for these vulnerable populations.
Pant welcomed Yunus’s call as a positive first step but underscored the urgency of implementing effective measures. “It is crucial that this commitment is translated into swift actions that guarantee justice, reparations, and prevent future violations against minority groups,” he stated.
Amnesty International is urging the Bangladeshi authorities to carry out a thorough, impartial, and independent investigation into the escalating crimes against Hindu, Ahmadi, and other minority communities. The organization demands that those responsible for acts of violence be held accountable through fair trials, explicitly opposing the use of the death penalty.
“The interim government must uphold rights to equality, non-discrimination, and bodily integrity for all citizens,” Pant added. “It is imperative to dismantle the culture of vengeance that has fueled attacks against political opponents and exacerbated the plight of minority communities.”
The background to this urgent call for action involves a disturbing trend of mob violence and attacks against minority religious groups. On August 13, 2024, Professor Yunus addressed concerns of escalating violence following the resignation of the previous administration, which has led to increased insecurity for minority populations.
Amnesty International has consistently reported on the troubling pattern of attacks against minorities in Bangladesh, and advocates are calling for immediate governmental intervention to protect these communities and ensure their access to justice.
