Bangladesh confirms 88 incidents of attacks on minorities, mainly Hindus, following Sheikh Hasina’s removal from power

On Tuesday, December 10, the interim government of Bangladesh acknowledged 88 incidents of communal violence against minorities, primarily Hindus, following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She fled Dhaka for India in August 2024 as protesters advanced towards her residence amid weeks of unrest.

Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to interim government head Muhammad Yunus, also stated that 70 individuals have been arrested in connection with these incidents. This acknowledgment came a day after India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri expressed concerns over recent attacks on minorities, calling them regrettable incidents.

Vikram Misri also raised India's concerns about the safety and well-being of minority communities during discussions with Bangladeshi leaders. Shafiqul Alam informed reporters that a total of 88 cases had been filed related to incidents against minorities between August 5 and October 22, adding that the number of cases and arrests might increase as new incidents of violence have been reported in areas such as Sunamganj in the northeast, Gazipur in the center, and others.

Alam further mentioned that some victims may have been former members of the previous ruling party. Regarding the attacks on Hindus, the government has continued to assert that these attacks were not motivated by religious beliefs, except in a few isolated incidents.

"Some attacks targeted individuals who were former members of the ruling party or were the result of personal disputes. Nonetheless, since violence occurred, the police are taking appropriate action," he explained. Alam added that further details on incidents after October 22 would be revealed soon.

In recent weeks, there has been a surge in violence against Hindus and other minorities, as well as attacks on temples in Bangladesh, which have raised serious concerns in New Delhi.