On Saturday, 23 October protests and vigils were held around the world to remember those who had been killed in the recent violence against the Hindu minority in Bangladesh.
In 150 locations around the world members of ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) and other Hindu groups demonstrated against the treatment of the Hindus in Bangladesh.
The purpose was to raise awareness and to demand protection and justice from the Bangladesh government for the religious minorities that are suffering atrocities and violence including attacks on temples and faith communities in the country.
ISKCON devotees from across the UK, along with eight other Hindu organisations joined forces at a huge protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in London. Over 800 participants of all ages, prayed, sang and lay flowers for those killed during the violence which saw temples including an ISKCON temple, homes and property damaged. At least 7 were murdered but there are thought to be more, and hundreds injured.
There were also protests in Birmingham, Edinburgh and Cardiff. All brandished placards demanded punishment for the perpetrators and greater protection for minorities including Christians and Buddhists.
In London, after a number of heartfelt speeches and thunderous singing accompanied by chants and slogans. Photos of those who died were remembered with flowers and candles.
As the peaceful but powerful demonstration drew to a close, there was a 2 minutes silence in honour of those who had died and who had suffered, as well as traditional Sanskrit prayers.
"It was heart-warming to see the diverse Hindu community and other faith communities join us in this protest," explained ISKCON spokesperson Sutapa das. “The day was filled mixed emotions - a sense of sadness and pain at the atrocities that have occurred, but a sense of hope that through spiritual unity and harmony we can help to eradicate such extremism. All faiths have the right to follow their chosen religious path without fear of persecution and torture. This is a basic human right that any respectable civilisation is founded upon."
“It is important that justice is done to the thugs who did this and the Bangladeshi government becomes more protective of its minorities” added Radha Mohan das. “But the solutions are spiritual – dialogue, mutual respect between religions and peace. Now that the protests and vigils have taken place, what follows must be diplomacy and dialogue for the benefit of the people of Bangladesh and especially those who are vulnerable.”
Radha Mohan das then posted a letter addressed to Bangladesh High Commissioner to the UK, Saida Muna Tasneem, calling for a meeting between her and the leaders of the Hindu community to discuss the issue.
