Protests Against Durga Puja in Bangladesh: Security Concerns

As the Durga Puja festival approaches, tensions are rising for the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Radical Islamic groups are actively opposing the open celebration of the festival. An organization named Insaf Keemkari Chhatra-Janta staged a protest in Dhaka, holding placards that read in Bangla: “No worship everywhere by closing roads, no pollution to water by idol immersion.”

They argue that, with Hindus comprising less than two percent of the population, there should be no public holidays for Durga Puja, as it disrupts the lives of the Muslim majority. Their demands also include restrictions on road closures for religious events and the prohibition of using government relief funds for festival expenses.

Additionally, the group has called for the removal of temples “built by occupying many special lands in Bangladesh.” Their 16-point demand states that Hindu citizens must align with anti-India sentiments since India is viewed as Bangladesh’s national enemy.

Reports of vandalism in temples and destruction of idols, especially in districts like Khulna, have only heightened concerns among the Hindu community. Despite assurances of safety and security from the administration, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of the interim government, the situation remains tense.

Significantly, there has been an increase in attacks on the Hindu community following the fall of the previous Sheikh Hasina-led government. The Durga Puja celebration, once marked by joy and festivity, is now overshadowed by anxiety and security issues.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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