Massive Protest Outside UK Parliament Against Minority Violence in Bangladesh

A large crowd gathered outside the UK Parliament to protest violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh following the departure of ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Protesters called for peace, equality, and constitutional amendments to protect all communities in Bangladesh, condemning ongoing atrocities committed by the majority population.

A significant crowd assembled outside the UK Houses of Parliament on Saturday to protest against the alleged violence targeting minority Hindus and other groups in Bangladesh. This came in the wake of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation earlier this week. Brandishing Bangladeshi flags, demonstrators held posters reading, 'Protect our temples in Bangladesh,' 'Hindu lives matter,' and 'We want justice.'

The protesters chanted slogans advocating for peace and equality amid the recent spike in violence. The event saw participation from various human rights organizations, members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, and Indian-American Hindu allies, all standing in solidarity with Bangladesh's Hindu community.

Unadi, a protester from Bangladesh, lamented the plight of Bangladeshi Hindus, pointing out that the majority population's dominance stifles their voices against injustices. 'Our country gained independence in 1971 so that all communities could live peacefully. But now, we are enduring atrocities committed by the majority,' said Unadi.

Drawing comparisons to other nations, he remarked that while global governments generally protect their minorities, the situation in Bangladesh forces many to flee the country. 'People's mentality must change for peaceful coexistence. In modern times, all communities must learn to coexist. We are all equals,' he added.

A protester representing the Bengali Christian Association in the UK emphasized the urgent need for equal treatment for all communities. 'I urge the interim government to amend the constitution, which currently designates Bangladesh as a Muslim country. However, every community fought for Bangladesh's independence, so it belongs to everyone,' she asserted.

Another protester highlighted the coercion faced by Bangladeshi minorities due to ongoing atrocities by the majority. 'We are here because, for the past five to six days, people in Bangladesh have been destroying our homes. They can't take our country from us nor expel us. We want safety and peace. The violence against minorities must cease,' he declared.

One more protester shared his traumatic experience, revealing that his home in Bangladesh was looted and set ablaze recently. 'My house was burned. Just days ago, many people looted our home,' he recounted.

(With inputs from agencies.)