‘Hindus never saw a day of freedom in Bangladesh’

Patna: As India celebrated its 78th Independence Day on Thursday, the sentiments of some Bangladeshi Hindus reflected a sombre reality. A 27-year-old businessman from Noakhali district in the neighbouring country, known for its violent past against Hindus, expressed his disillusionment. “It’s heartening to see India celebrate its 78th Independence Day, but we Bangladeshi Hindus never saw a day of freedom when we could live without fear,” the man, who is on a business trip to Patna, said.Recent unrest in Bangladesh has exacerbated these fears. The quota protests have allegedly triggered more than 200 attacks on Hindus, Christians and Buddhists with numerous temples vandalised in Bangladesh. “Anything happens in Bangladesh right from the nation’s birth in 1971 – or as a matter of fact in India like the Babri mosque demolition in 1992 – we Hindus have always been the soft targets,” the businessman said. He recounted incidents of violence during Durga Puja in 2021 and an attack on an Iskcon temple that resulted in a devotee’s death. “Why can’t we celebrate our festivals peacefully, like them (majority Muslims)? This time, we are bearing the brunt of an anti-quota stir by students,” he added.Another 24-year-old businessman from Feni district said while his family has complained of tense conditions, they are not as severe as those in Dhaka or Faridpur. Reflecting on the past govt, he said, “We felt comparatively safer under recently ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. However, despite her efforts, it was challenging for her to prevent every attack.”Their apprehension is evident, especially as they face uncertainty with the interim govt led by chief adviser Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate in economics “but not peace”. “We have no choice but to hope that Yunus will protect our interests. We also hope India, being a powerful neighbour, can intervene,” said the 24-year-old.The 27-year-old businessman expressed a poignant plea. “During the partition of India, my grandfather chose to stay back. He didn’t want to leave our motherland. But I don’t know how long we can survive in Bangladesh and why should we be uprooted,” he asked. He hopes India can provide refuge to those forced to flee their ancestral homes. “India, being our immediate neighbour and a Hindu-majority country, can accommodate those who really need shelter. If both the Bangladesh and Indian govts let us down, we will have no place to live,” he added.

'Judge us later': Bangladesh interim govt head Muhammad Yunus on temple visit calls for patience amid attacks on Hindus

Prof Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh's interim government, visited Dhakeswari Temple in Dhaka amid reports of attacks on minority communities. Yunus emphasized the main goal of establishing human rights and freedom of speech for all citizens. He condemned the attacks on minorities and called for equality and justice, urging patience and judgment on their efforts.

CPI(M) expresses concern over attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh

The CPI(M) Politburo expressed concern over attacks on Hindu places of worship in Bangladesh following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina. They urged the interim government to ensure minority safety and called on India to pursue the issue with Bangladesh. Reports indicated vandalism and killings targeting Hindus amid the developing chaotic situation.

Protests in Mysuru over alleged attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh

The city of Mysuru witnessed protests against Hindu attacks in Bangladesh, with BJP workers and various organizations demonstrating. Shivamogga police shot a rowdy-sheeter in self-defense. In Nanjangud, a crocodile sighting caused panic, while JSS Academy received top NIRF rankings. World Elephant Day was celebrated in Sakrebailu with special rituals for the elephants.

Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, Location Guesser and Mini Crossword. Spread love this holiday season with these Christmas wishes, messages, and quotes.