Hindus in Bangladesh have received serious threats, including warnings to burn temples across the country. There have also been threats specifically targeting those involved with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), stating that followers will face consequences if they continue their practices.
In Chittagong, Bangladesh, tensions escalated following a Facebook post criticising the ISKCON temple, leading to clashes between Hindu protesters and law enforcement. The post sparked widespread demonstrations, prompting a joint police and military operation that led to multiple arrests and allegations of acid attacks. The incident has intensified concerns over religious tensions in the area, raising calls for dialogue and protection for religious communities.
According to reports, local Hindus staged a protest against a trader named Osman Mollah, who allegedly made derogatory remarks about ISKCON and Sanatan Dharma. Outraged by his actions, members of the Hindu community gathered outside his shop to express their anger. However, rather than taking legal action against Mollah, law enforcement authorities placed him in "safe custody" to de-escalate the situation, which has sparked further frustration within the community.
A protest rally was held outside the Andarkila Jama Masjid in Chittagong after Jumma Namaz, where members of the Hefazat-e-Islam group raised anti-India and anti-ISKCON slogans. This followed ISKCON’s expression of solidarity with Hindus over an eight-point demand, which led Islamic organisations across the country to call for a nationwide ban on ISKCON, labelling it an "Indian extremist" organisation. During the rally in the Andarkila area, Hefazat-e-Islam leaders issued threats against ISKCON and Indians.
Amid rising tensions in Chittagong, Bangladesh, following provocative social media posts, India urged Dhaka to take action against radical elements and protect the Hindu community. Foreign Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal condemned the alleged attacks on Hindus in Chittagong, attributing the unrest to provocative posts circulating online. He emphasised that Bangladesh has a special responsibility to ensure the safety of its minorities.
Hindus, a minority within Bangladesh’s 170 million population, have traditionally supported Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party, which recently faced significant backlash following violent clashes between anti-quota protesters and security forces. On August 5, a student-led movement forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, 76, to step down after weeks of protests and clashes that left over 600 people dead.
Hasina fled to India, and an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus was established. Since then, Bangladesh has witnessed targeted attacks on minority communities, including Hindus and Buddhists, heightening concerns over their safety and rights.
Speaking to Asian Voice exclusively, a spokesperson from ISKCON said: “We are very concerned about some statements and threats coming from some media outlets and others in Bangladesh about ISKCON and the broader Hindu community there. Allegations against us are unfounded. ISKCON followers in Bangladesh are law-abiding citizens of that country, and members of an historic minority. Our roots in Bangladesh go back at least five centuries.
“As good citizens, we continue to make positive contributions to Bangladesh society including our social welfare programs like Hare Krishna Food for Life free food distribution, medical camps, flood relief, and winter clothing distribution to those in need. These resources benefit Bangladeshi citizens of all faiths. We call upon the interim government and other leaders to protect our members' safety and respect religious freedoms.
"In the UK, it is currently Interfaith Week (running from 10th - 17th November 2024). ISKCON members there are keenly participating in interfaith events, where we exercise our non-sectarian philosophy and show respect to one-another, join in prayers for peace and socialise in a spirit of friendship...."
