Delhi lawyer urges Bangladesh Supreme Court to order probe into attacks on Hindus

Advocate Vineet Jindal told UNI that he has written a letter to Chief Justice Syed Mahmud Hossain, urging him to take suo motu cognisance in the matter.

He said the issues of alleged discrimination against Hindu minorities and serious violation of their human rights have been raised.

The letter is based on the media reports about Hindus, temples and Durga Puja pandals being targeted.

"The news reports have revealed that the fundamental rights of Hindus in Bangladesh are being attacked repeatedly," Jindal said.

He appealed to Justice Hossain to consider converting his plea into a public interest litigation and take suo motu cognisance in the matter.

"A judicial inquiry should be held under a judge appointed by the apex court. Besides, the SC should consider hearing the matter as soon as possible," he said.

Under Articles 11, 23 and 28 of the Constitution of Bangladesh, the top court should direct the government to provide security to the Hindus, Jindal said, adding Rs 1 crore compensation should be given to families of the victims.

Hindus constitute about 8 per cent of Bangladesh population and they play a significant role in the social and economic development of that country, he said.

Though the Constitution of Bangladesh has given equal rights to all citizens, there have been repeated reports of attacks on Hindu minorities, the lawyer submitted.

Bangladesh has been rocked by a spate of attacks on Hindu houses, temples and Durga Puja pandals after rumours spread through social media of an alleged instance of disrespect to the holy Quran.