Dhaka
The stance of the US administration is becoming increasingly strict regarding the attacks on Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh. Recently, a strong message was sent from the White House to Mohammad Yunus, the chief advisor to the interim government of Bangladesh. In this call made by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, concern was expressed over the deteriorating situation of human rights and democracy in Bangladesh. It is noteworthy that this conversation at the White House has taken place at a time when only a few days are left for President Joe Biden in the White House.
The White House made it clear in its statement that protecting the human rights of every citizen is the primary responsibility of any government. Irrespective of religion, caste and any kind of discrimination, the US has warned Bangladesh to take concrete steps to stop the persecution of minorities on its soil. In this conversation, Yunus also assured to protect human rights and strengthen democratic values, but the question is whether this assurance will translate into ground reality?
Bangladesh’s disgrace on the international stage
For the past few months, reports of attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh have been making headlines in the international media. The US State Department has already criticized the Bangladesh government over the rights of minorities. The recent arrest of a religious leader, Chinmayakrishna Das, and the mistreatment of his lawyers has particularly drawn America’s attention.
Apart from this, Bangladeshi immigrants living in America have also protested against the increasing violence against minorities in their country. Due to these demonstrations, international pressure on Bangladesh has increased.
Will Bangladesh improve?
The interim government of Bangladesh has promised America to protect human rights and democracy, but in recent times the Yunus government has remained silent on the attacks on Hindus.
