Hindu Community's Vulnerability Amid Bangladesh Unrest

Following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Hindu houses, businesses, and temples in Bangladesh have seen a wave of vandalism. The Hindu population, constituting 8% of the country’s 170 million people, has historically supported Hasina's party. Calls for protection and interim government leadership are increasing.

Hundreds of Hindu houses, businesses, and temples have been vandalized since the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, a community association reported on Tuesday. The predominantly Hindu India has expressed concerns over these incidents.

Hindus, making up about 8% of Bangladesh's 170 million population, have largely supported Hasina's Awami League party, which is known for its secular stance. Since fleeing to India on Monday amidst lethal protests, Hasina's departure has left a security vacuum that has seen minorities come under attack.

The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) reported 200-300 mainly Hindu homes and businesses have been vandalized since Monday, with 15-20 temples damaged and up to 40 people injured, albeit not seriously. Rana Dasgupta, the general secretary, disclosed these figures to Reuters.

Dasgupta also noted personal threats, including an unidentified assailant hurling a brick at his car in Chattogram. Despite the risks, he vowed to stand against communal atrocities.

Reuters has not verified the scale of these events amid the chaos post-Hasina's departure. Police have remained unreachable for comments, aggravating concerns from community leaders like Manindra Kumar Nath. The Bangladesh military stated they were aiding in maintaining law and order nationwide.

Student protest leaders, responsible for demonstrations leading to Hasina's resignation, have called for restraint towards minorities. An interim government is expected soon, with suggestions for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead it.

(With inputs from agencies.)