In an effort to address ongoing attacks against Hindus and other minorities, Bangladesh interim leader Muhammad Yunus has called a meeting with Hindu students and youth on Monday. The interim government said the discussions will focus on resolving the current crisis and ensuring the safety of the Hindu community.
According to reports, minority communities in Bangladesh have faced at least 205 incidents of attacks in 52 districts since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government on August 5.
In its first official statement on Sunday after the swearing-in of cabinet members, the interim government said, “Attacks on religious minorities in some places have been noted with grave concern.”
Amid growing concerns, minority groups are demanding the implementation of the Minority Protection Act to safeguard their rights. A Hindu student group has prepared an eight-point list of demands to present to Yunus.
The demands include setting up of fast-track tribunals for speedy trial of cases of attacks on Hindus, immediate implementation of the Minority Protection Act, upgrading the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust to a foundation, modernising the Pali Education Board, declaring a five-day holiday during Sharadiya Durga Puja and setting up a ministry of minority affairs.
Muhammad Yunus had earlier condemned attacks on minority communitiesHe described it as “heinous” and urged young people to protect Hindu, Christian and Buddhist families.