Protests erupt over attacks on Hindus

Dhaka, August 9

Hundreds of people protested in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka on Friday against violence targeting the country’s minority Hindus since former PM Sheikh Hasina fled the country earlier this week.

A school teacher was killed and at least 45 people injured as homes, businesses, and temples of Hindus in Muslim-majority Bangladesh were targeted following Hasina’s resignation on Monday.

Protesters — some of them carrying posters demanding Bangladeshi minorities be “saved” — chanted slogans of “who are we, Bengali Bengali” and appealed for peace as they blocked an intersection in the capital on Friday.

Hindus, who make up about 8% of Bangladesh’s population of 170 million, have traditionally supported Hasina’s Awami League party, which sparked people’s anger after violent clashes between anti-quota protesters and security forces last month.

Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council has sought the help of Muhammad Yunus, who took charge as head of a caretaker administration. “There is deep apprehension, anxiety and uncertainty among minorities across the country,” the council said in an open letter on Friday.

Thousands of Bangladeshi Hindus have been trying to flee to neighbouring India to escape the violence.

Yunus said his government's goal would be to ensure "democracy, justice, human rights, and full freedom of fearless expression" for all. — Reuters