UK Parliament Voices Alarm Over Growing Violence Against Hindus in Bangladesh Amid Protests

Tensions escalate as UK lawmakers express serious concerns over attacks on the Hindu minority in Bangladesh, with urgent inquiries made in the House of Commons.

P24 News Media

December 03, 2024

1 minute

UK Parliament Voices Alarm Over Growing Violence Against Hindus in Bangladesh Amid Protests

India

The ongoing unrest among Hindus in Bangladesh, ignited by the arrest of an ISKCON priest, has captured the attention of the UK Parliament. Lawmakers are expressing deep concern about the troubling increase in violence directed towards this minority group situated in a predominantly Muslim nation. Labour MP Barry Gardiner raised the issue in the House of Commons during an urgent question session, highlighting the severity of the situation.

During the inquiry, Catherine West, the Foreign Office Minister responsible for the Indo-Pacific, disclosed that she had received guarantees from Bangladesh’s interim Prime Minister, Muhammad Yunus, regarding support for minority communities. This reassurance comes at a time when the international community is closely observing the situation following the detainment of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a prominent Hindu figure who faces sedition charges.

West acknowledged awareness of the Indian government's expressions of concern regarding the arrest, affirming that the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is actively monitoring developments in the region. She underscored the UK government's commitment to maintain vigilance over these events, ensuring engagements with the interim Bangladeshi government regarding the crucial issue of religious freedoms impacting the Hindu community.

The outpouring of concerns from UK MPs has been significant, with Conservative MP Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, emphasizing the alarming escalation of violence. Bob Blackman, chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Hindus, echoed her statements, bringing attention to the dire circumstances faced by Hindus who are enduring the devastation of their homes and businesses.

Blackman expressed that religious minorities are undergoing deliberate persecution, underscoring the need for urgent action to protect these communities. This appeal from Parliament reflects a growing awareness and concern regarding the treatment of Hindus in Bangladesh, which has implications for the broader dynamics of religious freedom and human rights in the region.

As international scrutiny mounts, the current situation prompts further deliberations on the responsibilities of governments to safeguard minority rights and maintain peace amidst rising tensions. The ongoing protests by Hindus in Bangladesh signify not only a local struggle but also highlight the urgent need for global attention and intervention to uphold human rights and promote religious tolerance.

In conclusion, the UK Parliament's heightened focus on these issues emphasizes the importance of global solidarity in addressing the challenges faced by religious minorities. The echoes of the protests in Bangladesh resonate beyond its borders, serving as a reminder of the necessity for collective action to ensure justice and protection for all individuals, regardless of their faith.