In a distressing incident, a 22-year-old Indian youth has claimed that he was beaten and robbed in Bangladesh after locals discovered he was an Indian Hindu. The youth, identified as Sayan Ghosh from Kolkata, was in Bangladesh visiting a friend when he was attacked by a group of five men near his friend’s residence in Dhaka on November 26, 2024.
Ghosh recounted the harrowing experience, stating that the assailants first asked him about his identity. Upon learning that he was an Indian Hindu, they proceeded to beat him and his friend, who attempted to intervene. The attackers also stole Ghosh’s mobile phone and wallet at knifepoint, leaving him injured and helpless.
What is most troubling about the incident, Ghosh noted, is that bystanders did nothing to help. Despite witnessing the attack, no one came forward to stop the violence or assist the victims. Ghosh expressed deep disappointment at the indifference shown by the local crowd.
This incident has raised concerns about the safety of Indian tourists, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh. It also highlights the ongoing issue of religious violence and discrimination against minorities in the country. While attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh are not new, this case adds to the growing list of violent incidents targeting minority communities in the region.
Ghosh and his family are now seeking justice and have appealed to the Indian authorities for support in addressing the issue. Meanwhile, the Indian consulate in Dhaka has been informed of the situation, and investigations into the incident are reportedly underway.
Why Hindus Are Decreasing in Bangladesh?
The decline in the Hindu population in Bangladesh is a complex issue rooted in a combination of historical, political, social, and economic factors. Here are the main reasons contributing to this trend:
1. Partition and Mass Migration (1947 and 1971)
- The partition of British India in 1947 led to the creation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), with many Hindus migrating to India due to religious tensions and insecurity.
- During the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, widespread violence and atrocities, including targeted attacks on the Hindu community, forced many Hindus to flee to India.
2. Discriminatory Laws and Policies
- Vested Property Act: Known as the “Enemy Property Act” during Pakistan’s rule, this law allowed the state to confiscate property from individuals deemed “enemies” of the state, disproportionately affecting Hindus. Despite reforms, its legacy has caused significant loss of land and displacement within the Hindu community.
- Hindus often face institutional discrimination, making it harder to access resources, education, and employment opportunities.
3. Religious and Social Persecution
- Hindus in Bangladesh have faced periodic violence, including communal riots, destruction of temples, and targeted attacks during political and social unrest.
- Extremist groups occasionally target minorities to instill fear, especially during elections or political instability.
4. Economic and Social Pressures
- Many Hindus, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, face poverty and marginalization. This often pushes them to seek better opportunities elsewhere, primarily in India.
5. Declining Fertility Rates and Assimilation
- Hindu families in Bangladesh often have lower fertility rates compared to some other religious groups. Additionally, assimilation into the broader Muslim-majority society might contribute to identity loss over generations.
6. Lack of Political Representation
- The Hindu community has limited political influence, which impacts their ability to advocate for their rights and protections effectively.
7. Emigration
- Hindus continue to migrate to India and other countries in search of safety, economic stability, and freedom from discrimination.
Efforts to Address the Issue
- The Bangladeshi government has taken steps to promote secularism and protect minority rights, but enforcement remains inconsistent.
- Activists and international organizations advocate for better protections for minority communities, including Hindus.
Conclusion
The decline of the Hindu population in Bangladesh reflects broader challenges faced by religious minorities in the region. Addressing this issue requires stronger enforcement of minority rights, legal reforms, and fostering a culture of tolerance and inclusion.
