Instead of showing seriousness about the attacks on Hindus and other minorities, the Bangladesh government has called it a political conspiracy. Citing a police report, it has been said that most of the incidents were not communal but politically motivated. The government has issued a WhatsApp number to deal with complaints of violence on priority and to maintain contact with the minority community.
Attacks on minorities and police reports
According to Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council,
- From 5 August 2024 to 8 January 2025, 2,010 incidents were related to communal violence.
- Of these, 1,769 incidents were of sabotage and attacks.
- Police have so far registered 62 FIRs in these cases and arrested 35 accused.
However, the government claims that:
- 1,234 incidents were of political nature.
- 20 incidents were communal.
- 161 complaints were found to be false or fake.
5th August was the day filled with the most violence
according to the report,
- The highest number of 1,452 incidents were recorded after the Hasina government was ousted from power on August 5, 2024.
- There were 65 incidents on 4 August and 70 incidents on 6 August.
Police action and WhatsApp number released
Police thoroughly investigated the council’s claims and contacted everyone who experienced violence and the affected areas.
- 134 complaints of communal violence were registered from 5 August 2024 to 8 January 2025.
- Police registered 53 cases and arrested 65 accused.
- A WhatsApp number has been issued to directly register complaints and get in touch with the minority community.
Government’s claim: Promise of strict action and compensation
Mohammad Yunus, chief advisor to the interim government, said that:
- A policy of zero tolerance towards communal attacks has been adopted in the country.
- Orders have been given to arrest the accused and give compensation to the victims.
India expressed concern
In the last few months, incidents of attacks on Hindus and other minority communities have increased in Bangladesh. India has expressed deep concern over incidents of vandalism, arson, and violence at religious places and houses.
