Bangladesh’s Hindu minority in fear as attacks rise and a national election nears
Summary
In Bangladesh, rising attacks on the Hindu minority have sparked fear ahead of the national election, amid growing Islamist influence and political tensions with India.
Key Points
- Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu garment worker, was killed by a mob following accusations of derogatory remarks about the Prophet Muhammad.
- Over 2,000 incidents of communal violence against minorities have been reported since the 2024 uprising, including killings, violence against women, and attacks on places of worship.
- The Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami is reemerging politically, raising concerns about impacts on religious minorities ahead of the February 12 election.
- Tensions between Bangladesh and India have risen due to Hindu minority attacks, affecting diplomatic relations and sporting events.
