Crackdown on Hindus in Chittagong Amid Rising Tensions

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

• Chittagong: Security forces launched a crackdown on the Hindu community amid rising religious tensions.
• Jamaat-e-Islami: A social media post sparked unrest with derogatory comments against ISKCON.
• Deployment: Army and police intervened to control the situation.
• Arrests: As of now, 49 individuals have been arrested.
• Allegations: Hindu leaders accused security forces of bias against their community.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

The Cause of Religious Tensions in Chittagong

In the Hazari Gali area of Chittagong, tensions erupted after Osman Ali, a member of the radical Islamic group Jamaat-e-Islami, posted offensive comments against the Hindu religion and ISKCON on social media. This incited outrage among the Hindu community, leading them to protest outside Ali’s shop.

Deployment of Security Forces to Control the Situation

To contain the escalating unrest, the Bangladesh Army and police were deployed. A video shared online showed security personnel clashing with civilians, with scenes of chaos as forces used batons and fired blank rounds to disperse the crowd. According to local authorities, protesters hurled bricks and acid, injuring nine officers, including one with severe acid burns.

Arrests and Allegations

By Tuesday, authorities had filed a case naming 582 individuals, resulting in 49 arrests. Community leaders from the Hindu side alleged that security forces disproportionately targeted Hindu residents during the crackdown, with reports of door-to-door searches in the area.

Accusations of Bias and Government Response

Hindu leaders voiced concerns that security forces were selectively targeting the Hindu community, which makes up roughly 8% of Bangladesh’s population. Minority rights in Bangladesh have been under scrutiny, with recent incidents raising alarm over the safety of Hindus. Interim government head and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus condemned the violence and assured that measures would be taken to protect the Hindu population.

Key Takeaways to Remember

• Tensions rose in Chittagong between Hindu and Muslim communities.
• A social media post by Jamaat-e-Islami member incited violence.
• Army and police intervened, with reports of harsh crackdowns.
• Hindu leaders alleged biased action by security forces.

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