Concerns Raised Over Minority Rights and Pakistan-Bangladesh Relations

In New Delhi, journalist Sushanta Das Gupta from Bangladesh expressed serious concerns about the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh and the growing ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Speaking at a press conference, Gupta highlighted that the Bangladesh government has acknowledged 80 incidents of violence against minorities. The event aimed to draw attention to the challenges faced by Hindus, indigenous people, and tribal communities in Bangladesh, emphasizing escalating religious intolerance and violence.

Gupta stressed the importance of raising awareness, noting that this was their second campaign following efforts at the UN Minority Forum. He pointed out that not only Hindus but also other minorities, including Christians, are suffering. Gupta also raised alarms over recent developments in Bangladesh's foreign relations, particularly the introduction of visa-free entry for Pakistanis and Pakistani military training in Bangladesh.

US-based journalist Sitangshu Guha urged the Indian government and global community to support Bangladesh's minorities, suggesting the creation of autonomous zones in Hindu-majority areas and imposing sanctions on Bangladesh. Pushpita Gupta from the Secular Bangladesh Movement, UK, claimed that religious minorities lack support and shared a student's harrowing experience of fleeing due to threats.

Arun K Datta recounted personal experiences from the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, highlighting the ongoing struggles of Hindu families affected by past violence. The press conference called for international awareness and immediate action to address human rights violations in Bangladesh.