A human rights organization strongly criticized the wave of violence targeting religious and ethnic minorities, including indigenous groups, in Bangladesh from January to April. Reports by the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities revealed 505 incidents of violence across 62 districts, exposing a troubling trend of persecution and discrimination. The incidents included killings, assaults, kidnappings, sexual violence, attacks on religious sites, and other forms of persecution.
The Justice Makers Bangladesh in France highlighted 95 incidents of temple attacks and religious vandalism in 43 districts, emphasizing the assault on religious freedom and cultural identity. Additionally, 28 cases of sexual violence, including rape, were documented in 23 districts, revealing the gendered nature of violence against marginalized communities. The organization also noted six blasphemy-related incidents in six districts, showing the misuse of religious sentiments to target minorities.
The organization expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh, criticizing the government for failing to prevent violence against minorities. It called for the establishment of an independent judicial commission to investigate all reported incidents impartially. Urging accountability for perpetrators, regardless of political influence, the group demanded protection, compensation, and rehabilitation for victims. Furthermore, they advocated for the enactment of a Minority Protection Act and the establishment of an independent Minority Commission to safeguard minority rights in Bangladesh.
