Kolkata: Radharaman Das, the vice president and spokesperson for Kolkata ISKCON, has voiced serious worries for the safety of all minority communities in Bangladesh and has vehemently condemned the recent attacks on Hindu temples in that nation.
Eight idols in the districts of Mymensingh and Dinajpur were vandalized by criminals who targeted three Hindu temples in Bangladesh over the course of the last two days, according to local media. A 27-year-old suspect connected to one of the events was verified to have been arrested by authorities.
Early on Friday, thieves looted two idols at the Bonderpara Temple in the Shakuai union of Haluaghat, according to Abul Khayer, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Haluaghat Police Station.
These assaults are part of a troubling pattern of violence against the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh. Reacting to the incidents, Radharaman Das said, “When the Foreign Secretary visited Bangladesh, we were hopeful of positive outcomes. However, the recent attacks on three temples in just two or three days are deeply unfortunate.”
He also expressed frustration over the recurring nature of such violence, saying, “It is difficult to predict when this will end. Such incidents are deeply concerning and show no signs of abating.”
Das also pointed to rising fundamentalist threats, including provocative speeches against ISKCON and threats directed at Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. “In this festive season, as Christmas approaches, these attacks have created widespread fear. The Christian community is particularly worried, with Intelligence agencies warning of possible threats. Celebrations are being advised to remain limited, and security arrangements are being made. This atmosphere of terror, where people cannot celebrate their festivals freely, is deeply concerning,” he said.
Highlighting alarming statistics, Das noted, “Yesterday, the Indian government reported in Parliament that over 2,200 attacks and incidents of violence have been documented against minorities in Bangladesh this year. This number is extremely concerning. Many rural areas witness large-scale violence that goes unreported, which makes the documented cases even more significant.”
He urged the Bangladeshi government to take immediate action to protect minority communities, stating, “We hope the Bangladeshi authorities will ensure the safety of Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and other minorities.”
The incidents occurred amid strained diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh following the interim government’s rise to power on August 5, after Sheikh Hasina was ousted during a student-led uprising.
Observers and rights groups have called for swift action from the Bangladeshi government to bring perpetrators to justice and prevent further violence, emphasising the urgent need to ensure the safety and rights of minority communities.