Oikya Parishad calls on the UN to investigate 'communal violence'

Leaders of the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Oikya Parishad have described the recent “communal violence” against indigenous and religious minority communities in both the hill tracts and plains as “crimes against humanity.” They have urged the United Nations to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation into these incidents, particularly those occurring after August 5. 

During protests held across the country yesterday, they demanded the dismissal of unfounded cases against their leaders, including General Secretary Rana Dasgupta and other minority leaders. They also called for action on an eight-point agenda, which includes bringing those responsible for all communal violence, including post-August 5 incidents, to justice.

The central protest took place outside the Jatiya Press Club, featuring key speakers such as the council’s co-presidents Prof. Neem Chandra Bhowmik and Nirmol Rozario, Acting General Secretary Monindra Kumar Nath, Presidium Member Ranjan Karmakar, and Bangladesh Buddhist Federation General Secretary Bhikkhu Sunanda Priyo, among others.

Nirmol Rozario highlighted that “Between August 4 and August 20 this year, 2,010 incidents of violence against minorities were reported nationwide.”

Addressing the interim government, he urged, “Take whatever steps are necessary to establish peace. If you cannot fulfill your responsibilities properly, you have no right to hold power.”