Civil society group sends letter to Muhammad Yunus criticizing the 'mistreatment' of minorities in Bangladesh

A civil society group of prominent Indian Muslims has addressed a letter to Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, expressing strong condemnation of the "mistreatment" of minorities in the country and urging authorities to take corrective measures. The letter, signed by notable figures including former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi, ex-Delhi Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung, former AMU Vice Chancellor Zamir Uddin Shah, former MP Shahid Siddiqui, and industrialist Saeed Shervani, described the recent "harsh treatment and victimization" of minorities in Bangladesh as deeply concerning and alarming for Indian Muslims.

"As Muslims, we are dismayed and disappointed by such un-Islamic behavior, which blatantly contradicts the principles of Islam and the teachings of the Prophet. We sincerely hope that the Bangladesh government takes decisive action against communal elements and ensures the full protection of its Hindu population and other minorities," the group, operating under the banner 'Citizens For Fraternity,' stated in their letter. "We unequivocally condemn these acts. Such cowardice tarnishes Islam's image, a faith that emphasizes the protection of minorities. The treatment of minorities is a litmus test for any democracy," they added.

The letter, dated December 4, also emphasized that minorities must be safeguarded in all societies, irrespective of their race or religion. It further highlighted the alarming development in Bangladesh, where lawyers are reportedly unwilling to represent the aggrieved parties due to fears of reprisal from their co-religionists.

"If the current government in Bangladesh fails to address this deplorable situation, it could signify implicit support," the letter warned, urging Bangladesh to act promptly. 

The group also called for broader regional reflection on this concerning trend, stating, "South Asia must confront this troubling reality that threatens human rights across the region."

In addition to Muhammad Yunus, the group addressed a similar letter to Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin, urging immediate and corrective actions to uphold minority rights and ensure adherence to the UN Charter on protecting minority interests.