Sun Nov 03 10:38:11 UTC 2024: ## Bangladesh Hindus Demand Protection Amidst Wave of Attacks
**DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP)** – Thousands of minority Hindus in Bangladesh took to the streets on Friday, demanding protection from the interim government following a surge in attacks and harassment against their community.
The protests, which saw roughly 30,000 Hindus gather in Chattogram, come amidst mounting concerns over the safety of minority groups since the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in early August. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council reports over 2,000 attacks against Hindus since then, with many blaming hard-line Islamists for the violence.
The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has faced criticism for its failure to adequately protect minorities. The situation has drawn international attention, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing concern and U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump condemning the violence against minorities.
The protests escalated after 19 Hindu leaders, including prominent priest Chandan Kumar Dhar, were charged with sedition on Wednesday. The charges stem from an October 25 rally where a saffron flag was reportedly placed above the Bangladesh flag, a perceived disrespect to the national symbol.
Hindu community leaders, who see the charges as politically motivated, have demanded their immediate withdrawal.
The unrest has also extended to supporters of the ousted Prime Minister, with the Jatiya Party, an ally of Hasina’s Awami League, reporting attacks on its offices and members.
The party’s chair, G.M. Quader, has vowed to continue protesting, despite threats to their safety. However, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police has banned rallies near the Jatiya Party headquarters, following pressure from a student group. The party has postponed its planned rally in respect of the law.
The situation in Bangladesh remains volatile, with the interim government facing immense pressure to address the growing unrest and restore order.
First Piper 