What does Bangladesh’s constitution state about religious freedom?

Mon Dec 02 03:00:00 UTC 2024: ## India Condemns Religious Persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh

**DHAKA, BANGLADESH** – India has voiced strong concerns over the rising persecution of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, following reports of temple desecration and the arrest of a Hindu monk on sedition charges. The Indian government asserts that these actions violate Bangladesh’s constitutional guarantees and international human rights law.

The statement follows a recent protest by Bangladeshi Hindus demanding the withdrawal of cases against their leaders and protection from attacks. Approximately 20 million Hindus, along with other religious minorities, are reportedly living in fear under the current interim government, which has yet to take decisive action against perpetrators of violence.

A constitutional law expert, Faizan Mustafa, Vice-Chancellor of Chanakya National Law University, Patna, highlighted the contradictions between Bangladesh’s constitution, which guarantees religious freedom and equality, and the ongoing persecution. While the constitution explicitly mentions secularism as a fundamental principle and prohibits discrimination based on religion, the reality on the ground paints a different picture.

Mustafa points out that, despite past attempts to remove secularism from the constitution, the courts have repeatedly upheld its importance. He argues that the current situation directly contradicts the constitutional mandate, calling for immediate judicial intervention to protect minority rights. The article details the constitutional provisions guaranteeing religious freedom, equality, and the prohibition of discrimination, contrasting them with the present reality.

The Bangladeshi Foreign Ministry’s response to India’s concerns has been deemed inadequate. The article emphasizes that human rights are not solely internal matters and that India is justified in expressing its concerns about the situation. The author also briefly touches upon the historical context of Bangladesh’s creation and its initial commitment to secularism, contrasting it with the current challenges.