KHULNA – During a mass uprising that led to the resignation and flight of Bangladesh’s long-time prime minister last week, a retired auditor, Arobinda Mohalder, found himself in fear for his life. Mohalder, a member of Bangladesh’s Hindu minority who had previously worked for the ruling party, was shaken when he learned that a fellow Hindu official from the Awami League party escaped an angry mob that had set his home on fire in Khulna district.
Mohalder and his wife hastily packed their belongings and sought refuge with a relative after their own home was torched and looted by attackers. Ever since the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India, her supporters and allies have been subjected to retaliatory attacks, with members of the Hindu minority feeling particularly vulnerable due to their historical affiliation with the party and past experiences of violence during times of turmoil.
Following Hasina’s departure on Aug 5, there have been over 200 reported attacks against Hindus and other religious minorities in 52 districts, according to the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council. However, the exact nature and motivations behind these incidents remain difficult to ascertain in a country with a population of 170 million.
Experts suggest that while some attacks may target minorities based on religious faith, others might be politically motivated due to historical affiliations with the ruling party. The temporary government established after Hasina’s resignation has denounced the attacks as heinous and is working with community leaders to ensure the safety of vulnerable groups like the Hindus.
For many within the Hindu minority, the recent violence has resurrected painful memories of past atrocities, including during Bangladesh’s struggle for independence and subsequent periods of political unrest. Amidst growing concerns, Hindu communities have organized protests demanding protection and condemning the spate of attacks.
While some analysts attribute the attacks to political motives against Hasina’s party, others emphasize the need for a comprehensive investigation to uncover the true motives behind the violence. Amidst the turmoil, concerns have been raised about the lack of police presence in vulnerable areas, leaving many citizens feeling unprotected and insecure.
Despite the challenges, volunteers and community members have rallied together to provide neighborhood patrols and support, aiming to restore a sense of security amidst uncertainty. The unfolding events in Bangladesh have not only sparked widespread concern domestically but have also garnered international attention, with neighboring countries expressing solidarity and offering assistance to ensure peace and stability in the region.
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