Bangladesh Vows Swift Actions Against Minority Attacks

Bangladesh's new Home Affairs Ministry adviser, Brigadier General (retd) M Sakhawat Hussain, has pledged swift legal actions against those attacking or abusing minorities, emphasizing communal harmony and peace. The commitment came during a meeting with ISKCON Bangladesh, following increased violence against Hindu communities after the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government.

Bangladesh's newly-appointed Home Affairs Ministry adviser, Brigadier General (retd) M Sakhawat Hussain, has vowed to take swift legal action against those who attack or abuse minorities, stressing that the nation has no tolerance for violence, conflict, or hatred.

Hussain's assurance came during a meeting with a delegation from the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Bangladesh at the Secretariat, the Dhaka Tribune reported. This follows a spike in violence against Hindu communities after Sheikh Hasina's government fell on August 5 amid massive protests.

Hussain reaffirmed that Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony, where people of all religions live together without divisions. He emphasized that swift legal action would be taken against perpetrators and reassured that peace is a fundamental belief of the country.

During the meeting, ISKCON Bangladesh's president, Satyaranjan Baroi, urged the adviser to prioritize the safety of minorities. Eight proposals were presented, including enacting protective laws and forming a Minority Commission. Hussain assured his full support.

The Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance reported that the minority community faced attacks in 278 locations across 48 districts since August 5. Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has reached out to the Hindu community, urging patience and promising justice.

On Monday, Hussain's ministry established a hotline for reporting attacks on temples, churches, or other religious institutions.

(With inputs from agencies.)