Concerned about the escalating situation in Bangladesh, Hindu American groups have expressed deep concern regarding the safety of Hindus after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India on August 5, 2024. 

Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said reports from Human Rights organizations in Bangladesh indicate widespread attacks on Hindu temples, homes, and businesses.  

In response to the developing situation, HAF Director of Policy Research, Anita Joshi, noted, “These attacks are heartbreaking, but unsurprising. It is well documented that prior to the toppling of Sheikh Hasina’s government, Bangladesh’s Hindu population has been targeted and harassed in sections of the country for many years now.” 

Emphasizing that the Bangladesh Army is currently establishing an interim government, Joshi urged “local law enforcement and military leadership to ensure the safety of all Bangladesh’s religious minorities, protecting their homes, business, and places of worship in this moment of turmoil.”

HAF has urged the US State Department to collaborate with military leaders and interim government to swiftly safeguard religious minorities from violence.

Additionally, Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), has reported violence including “targeted” murders, assault, and arson against Hindus amid the deepening political crisis.

“There are alarming calls for the genocide of Hindus, echoing the unfinished agenda of Operation Searchlight from the 1971 Bengali Hindu Genocide. The Hindu population in Bangladesh is currently facing extreme vulnerability and fighting for their survival,” added CoHNA. 

CoHNA further said, “Bangladeshi Hindus and we at CoHNA need your help to alert lawmakers in North America,” encouraging Hindus in US and Canada to sign a petition to their local lawmakers, urging them to save Bengali Hindus from genocide.

The American Hindu Coalition has called on the Bangladesh Army, and Muhammad Yunus, who has been chosen to advise on the formation of the new government, to ensure the safety of 15 million Hindus and the protection of their places of worship.

Reiterating calls for calm and peace, US Embassy in Dhaka said, “We are concerned about reports of attacks on religious minorities and religious sites in Bangladesh. As a friend and partner to the Bangladeshi people, the United States will continue to support Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations and respect for human rights.”

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