Sun Jan 25 00:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Exodus Fears Rise as Religious Tensions Escalate in Bangladesh Ahead of Elections

The Story: As Bangladesh prepares for parliamentary elections on February 12, 2026, escalating communal violence is driving fear and anxiety among religious minorities, particularly Hindus. A report from The Hindu details the concerns of Bangladeshi migrants in India, specifically in the Nepalgarh locality of Kishanganj, Bihar. These migrants, who settled in India decades ago after fleeing religious persecution, express deep worry for their relatives still in Bangladesh, citing increased violence and communication disruptions. The situation evokes memories of past migrations triggered by similar tensions, underscoring a recurring pattern of vulnerability for religious minorities in the region.

Key Points:

  • The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council reported 51 incidents of communal violence in December 2025 alone.
  • Parliamentary elections are scheduled in Bangladesh on February 12, 2026, following mass protests and the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
  • Human Rights Watch has documented violence, particularly targeting vulnerable genders and religious minorities during the political transition.
  • Migrants in Nepalgarh, Kishanganj, who came from Bangladesh in the 1960s, are struggling to contact their family members in Bangladesh due to blocked networks.
  • The Hindu population in Bangladesh is approximately 13.13 million, about 7.95% of the country’s total population, according to the 2022 census.

Key Takeaways:

  • Political instability in Bangladesh is exacerbating existing vulnerabilities for religious minorities.
  • The historical context of past migrations due to religious persecution is informing current anxieties and fears.
  • Communication disruptions are amplifying the sense of isolation and vulnerability among those with relatives in Bangladesh.
  • The upcoming elections are a critical juncture, with the potential to either alleviate or further escalate tensions.
  • The situation highlights the importance of international monitoring and advocacy to ensure the safety and rights of religious minorities in Bangladesh.

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