Bangladesh Polls
Bangladesh: Over125 groups urge immediate action on violence against Hindus ahead of polls
A coalition of human rights groups, faith-based organisations, and civil society leaders has issued an emergency appeal expressing concern over alleged atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh, which has been facing political instability since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted in 2024 following mass protests.
The appeal has been led by the Hindus Advancing Human Rights Initiative (HAHRI).
In a letter calling for urgent international intervention, the coalition stated: “We draw your urgent attention to the grave and continuing human rights violations being inflicted upon members of the indigenous Hindu people and minority in Bangladesh and seek your immediate intervention to protect them. This protection is sought under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) 2007, which establishes minimum global standards for dignity, survival, and well-being.”
The letter further alleged that “disturbing and reliable reports” of murder, intimidation, destruction of property, and systematic persecution have left members of the Hindu community feeling fearful and insecure.
According to the coalition, more than 125 organisations and individuals from 15 countries have endorsed the appeal. The letter urges the United Nations, the United States, the European Union, India, and other global powers to take immediate steps to safeguard minority communities in Bangladesh.
The appeal claims there has been a sustained demographic decline among Hindus in Bangladesh, attributing it to forced migration and persecution. It also warned that rising Islamist extremism could threaten broader regional peace and stability. These claims could not be independently verified.
The letter cited the December 18, 2025 killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu labourer who was allegedly lynched following accusations of blasphemy. Graphic footage of the incident circulated widely on social media, drawing international condemnation.
The coalition described the incident as evidence of a breakdown in law and order and alleged that between August 2024 and November 30, 2025, there were 2,673 attacks on minorities, including indigenous communities. Independent confirmation of these figures was not immediately available.
Bangladesh is set to vote in national elections on February 12, the first since Hasina’s removal from office. Following her ouster in a student-led movement, an interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus assumed power.
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