Bangladesh Minority Alliance Rallies for Eight-Point Demand
On October 4, 2024, thousands gathered in Dhaka under the banner of the Bangladesh Combined Minority Alliance to demand protection and rights for the country’s minority communities. Leaders from temples, monasteries, universities, and various professions participated in the mass rally at the central Shaheed Minar. They called for the government to accept their eight-point demand, which aims to ensure safety and justice for religious minorities.
#WATCH | Bangladesh Combined Minority Alliance organised a massive protest rally today in Dhaka, ahead of Durga Puja. The Alliance put forth an 8-point demand, including, the guarantee of justice for the persecution of minorities, and urged that the same be accepted.
Spiritual… pic.twitter.com/b0nNiOYJSW
— ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2024
Rally Highlights Growing Concerns for Minorities In Bangladesh
The rally saw the participation of spiritual leaders, students, and concerned citizens from all over Bangladesh. These representatives, particularly from Dhaka and Chittagong, echoed concerns about the ongoing persecution of minorities. They cited cases of arson, looting, forced occupation, and even murder.
The rally comes at a time when Bangladesh’s political landscape is unstable. After the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus took charge of the interim government. Although the government claims that attacks on minorities are politically motivated, the rally’s speakers emphasized that these are, in fact, acts of religious persecution, particularly targeting Sanatani Hindus.
Also Read: Hindus Reconsider Durga Puja Amid Vandalism and Jizya Threats
The Eight-Point Demand
At the heart of the rally was the presentation of an eight-point demand. This set of demands includes the creation of a Neutral Investigation Commission and the formation of a Fast-track Trial Tribunal to ensure swift justice for victims of persecution. The demands also call for a Minority Protection Act, which will offer legal security to the country’s Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.
Additionally, the alliance asked for the establishment of a Ministry of Minority Affairs and the upgrading of religious welfare trusts to foundations for Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. They emphasized the proper implementation of the Vested Property Return Act, which would allow minorities to reclaim wrongfully seized properties. The modernization of the Sanskrit and Pali Education Board was also stressed to improve religious and cultural education for minority communities.
Further demands included constructing worship spaces in public and private universities and allocating prayer rooms in student hostels to ensure religious freedom for minority students. The alliance also called for a five-day public holiday for Durga Puja, along with necessary leave for all minorities during their respective festivals.
Political Shifts and Increased Attacks
Since Sheikh Hasina fled to India in early August, Bangladesh has witnessed a spike in violence against religious minorities. According to the alliance, these attacks were unprecedented in their scale and brutality, with reports of looting, rape, and mob justice. While the interim government claims that these incidents are part of broader political unrest, the minority communities argue that they are being singled out.
The mass rally has amplified these voices, pushing the government to act. As Durga Puja approaches, leaders fear further violence if the government fails to address their concerns.
A Call for Justice and Action In Bangladesh
Speakers at the rally urged the government to prioritize the eight-point demand. They emphasized that without swift and decisive action, minority communities would continue to suffer. The alliance urged citizens to unite and fight against communal violence, demanding proper compensation for victims and the swift punishment of perpetrators.
Bangladesh’s interim government faces mounting pressure to protect its vulnerable minority populations. The outcome of this rally may set the tone for how the country handles minority rights in the future.