A minority human rights organization in Bangladesh has expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of communal violence and extortion, especially targeting the Hindu minority community. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, known for its work against religious discrimination, has strongly criticized ongoing threats to demolish the Radha-Gobinda Temple in Gaibandha district. The organization warned that such actions could severely disrupt communal harmony nationwide.
The council’s central committee, in a recent meeting in Dhaka, urged the Bangladeshi government to take immediate and effective steps to halt these troubling incidents. They called on authorities, civil society, and political leaders at all levels to swiftly address the situation and maintain peace and harmony among communities. Additionally, the organization demanded that those inciting communal hatred be held accountable and face appropriate consequences.
Reports indicate that construction of the world’s largest Lord Ram statue at the Sri Sri Radha Govinda and Kali Temple in Palashbari upazila of Gaibandha has been halted by Bangladeshi authorities. The temple advisor, Shyamal Kumar Mahant, announced this decision during a press conference, leading to criticism and allegations that the suspension was influenced by anti-project Islamist groups. Exiled author and human rights activist Taslima Nasreen strongly condemned the threats and hostile environment surrounding the temple’s construction, questioning the unequal treatment of religious minorities in Bangladesh.
Nasreen emphasized the need for religious freedom to be equally respected for all communities, not just the majority, citing the numerous mosques present and continuously being built in the country. She denounced the incitement and hateful rhetoric against the Ram temple construction, emphasizing that disagreements should be resolved peacefully and not through violence or destruction in a lawful society.
