Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina on Saturday raised alarm about the "multidimensional violence" being meted out to Sanatan Dharma followers since August 2024 by the Muhammad Yunus-led caretaker government, stating that the brutality has sent shockwaves across the global community.
Reacting to the relentless attacks on the nation's Hindu minority, Hasina termed the situation in Bangladesh as one that has been characterized by unrelenting persecution of religious minorities.
In a letter to Sanatan Dharma followers during Durga Puja, she pointed to the wider significance of the festival beyond its rituals. She observed that its social and cultural aspects speak to all mankind, cutting across the fetters of religion and caste.
"In the past, Durga Puja in Bangladesh was mostly celebrated within families, but now community (barowari) Durga Pujas are more common. The multidimensional violence unleashed upon the followers of Sanatan Dharma after August 5 of last year has left the whole world stunned. Even in the midst of this horrific time of persecution of religious minorities, I extend my best wishes to all adherents of the Sanatan faith in Bangladesh. I wish everyone a blessed Sharad season and well-being for all," read a statement issued by the former PM which was posted on Bangladesh Awami League party's social media accounts.
She further emphasized that Bangladesh has, in the past, prospered through harmony, empathy, and shared happiness.
"But today, the people of Bangladesh are being held hostage by conspirators and bigoted groups. In their frenzied game of politics that seeks to divide people and destroy the country, the Bangladesh Awami League will certainly resist," read a statement issued by the former PM.
In spite of the unrest, Hasina remained hopeful that the festive period would wash away the power of forces of destruction.
"The Bangladesh of tomorrow will once again be a land of communal harmony and religious diversity in celebration. In every joy and sorrow, we will remain by each other’s side," she stressed.
The Awami League had earlier this week condemned violent attacks on temples and idol vandalism during Durga Puja preparation.
Criticizing the Yunus government directly, the party asserted, "Since this illegal group captured state power, Hindus and other minority groups have been killed."
Alleging seriously, the party also claimed that the caretaker government has made Bangladesh unsafe for individuals of varied faith and ideology.
“No one is able to live according to their own ideology. Under the direct patronage of these illegitimate occupiers, a new form of mob terror has been unleashed in Bangladesh. As a result, these mobs do not hesitate to attack any individual or community outside their own faith and ideology. Shrines, mosques, temples, and other religious institutions have not been spared from their assaults,” the Awami League stated.
