Following the resignation and flight of the now former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, the nation has witnessed an extraordinary display of unity and protection towards minority communities. In response to a call from Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami (BJI) to safeguard religious minorities and their places of worship, citizens from diverse backgrounds, including members of the BJI’s student wing, Islami Chhatrashibir, have come together to protect Hindu temples across Bangladesh.
Amid fears of potential communal tensions fueled by factions loyal to the Awami League, Sheikh Hasina’s political party, vigilant citizens took preemptive measures to maintain peace. Prominent temples like the ISKCON temple and various others across the country have seen scenes of solidarity, with individuals patrolling and staying alert to ensure the safety of minority communities, reported the Hindustan Gazette. This collective effort underscores the nation’s commitment to protecting minority interests and maintaining communal harmony during a time of political uncertainty.
After Sheikh Hasina fled the country, visuals emerged of people ransacking her official residence and demolishing the statue of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. According to the Dhaka Tribune, at least 135 people were killed in the countrywide violence on Monday.
Social media saw a surge of support for the Hindu community with the hashtag #AllEyesOnBangladeshiHindus trending. Student leaders and political figures have rallied to call for an end to violence and vandalism, demanding the protection of religious minorities.
The coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement announced an outline for an interim government headed by Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus and appealed for the protection of Hindus.
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