Dhaka: The condition of the Hindu community in Bangladesh has reportedly deteriorated following the overthrow of the Sheikh Hasina government. The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has introduced new directives impacting the Hindu community, including restrictions on the use of loudspeakers during Durga Puja celebrations.
According to media reports, the new interim government has asked Hindu communities to refrain from using loudspeakers during Namaz and Azaan, a directive issued by the Home Affairs Advisor, Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Chowdhury confirmed that local puja committees have been asked to switch off loudspeakers and avoid playing musical instruments during Islamic prayers. He added that the organisers have agreed to comply with the request.
This year, a total of 32,666 puja pandals will be set up across Bangladesh, a reduction from last year’s 33,431, highlighting a more cautious approach amidst growing concerns over religious tensions. The government’s directive follows recent student protests against quotas in education and jobs for descendants of Bangladesh’s freedom fighters, which had triggered attacks on the minority Hindu community after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Concerns Over Religious Freedom
The new restrictions have sparked concerns among religious minorities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, who feel increasingly targeted under the interim government. When questioned about the recent attacks on religious sites, including the Shah Poran Dargah incident, Lt Gen Chowdhury stated, “I don’t know anything about the attack on Shah Poran Dargah. However, it is my responsibility to ensure security so that no such attack takes place. Law enforcers have been instructed in this regard.”
Chowdhury assured the public that security will be provided to puja organisers from the construction of idols through to the celebrations. “We have discussed how to ensure 24/7 security at puja mandaps. Measures will be taken to ensure an unhindered celebration of the puja and prevent any malicious activities by miscreants,” he added.
Actions Stir Concerns in India
Recent actions taken by the Muhammad Yunus regime have also raised concerns in neighbouring India. In a move that has caused further controversy, the caretaker government recently banned the export of hilsa fish to India, leading to a shortage of the prized Bangladeshi ilish ahead of Durga Puja, which has consequently driven up prices in India. This decision contrasts sharply with the goodwill gesture previously extended by Awami League leader and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who had allowed hilsa exports during the festive season.
As tensions rise, questions about the safety and rights of religious minorities in Bangladesh continue to dominate public discourse, both within the country and across its borders.
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